NBA rumors: LeBron James reportedly could end up on a former team of one of his current Lakers teammates

The Los Angeles Lakers are shaping their future by rebuilding the roster with a championship mindset. They’ve made key acquisitions to elevate both LeBron James and Luka Doncic, aiming to contend now while still weighing James’ long-term outlook. That future may ultimately involve a return to Texas — potentially with the Dallas Mavericks, the former team of his current teammate Doncic.

A move to Dallas to close out his legendary career remains on the table for LeBron James. The Lakers star has been linked to the Mavericks ever since opting into his $52.6 million player option. Although speculation has cooled in recent weeks, with many expecting him to remain in Los Angeles, the door hasn’t fully closed.

According to Mavericks insider Marc Stein, James has shown “genuine curiosity” about suiting up in Dallas. While he remains comfortable in Los Angeles due to his off-court ventures, Dallas could explore the possibility of bringing him in — as long as it doesn’t involve a trade.

“I believe that James does have some genuine curiosity about playing in Dallas,” Stein reported. “Bear in mind that he is extremely settled off the floor in Los Angeles … They have not tried to trade for him and do not want to try to trade for him if it means surrendering multiple rotation pillars for a player who turns 41 in December.”

Jaden McDaniels #3 of the Minnesota Timberwolves goes to the basket against LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers in the first quarter of Game Four of the First Round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs.

“If James suddenly became a free agent they could sign to a minimum deal, that’s a different discussion. I believe strongly that they would want him in that scenario,” Stein added.

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The Mavericks are searching for a new identity after parting ways with Luka Doncic, their former franchise cornerstone. A reunion with familiar faces like Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving makes Dallas a logical landing spot for James, especially as the franchise reshapes its core.

Their current plan involves building around a mix of veterans and youth: Klay Thompson, Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, and this year’s No. 1 overall pick, Cooper Flagg. This upcoming NBA season could be used to establish chemistry and give Kyrie time to return to full form — setting the stage for a potential run if LeBron joins next summer.

While the Mavericks have pieces the Lakers might accept in a deal, any trade would likely disrupt Dallas’ roster depth and balance. Still, if LeBron James and the Lakers part ways via a buyout after eight seasons together, Dallas may be best positioned to land the four-time NBA champion.