New Lakers Trade Rumors Secures Klay Thompson at a Hefty Cost 1 Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

New Lakers Trade Rumors Secures Klay Thompson at a Hefty Cost

Originally posted on LAFB Network | By Ryan Anderson | Last updated Oct 9, 2025 1:39 PM ET

NBA: Playoffs-Los Angeles Lakers at Golden State Warriors Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

The latest round of Los Angeles Lakers trade rumors has taken a surprising turn — one that could send LeBron James to Dallas and bring Klay Thompson to Los Angeles in a blockbuster move.

According to Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz, the Dallas Mavericks could emerge as a serious suitor for James if the four-time MVP decides he’s done playing a secondary role in Los Angeles. “If LeBron James grows tired of being a No. 2 option with the Los Angeles Lakers, finishing his career with the Dallas Mavericks is an intriguing option,” Swartz wrote.

Swartz outlined a potential framework that would send Klay Thompson, Daniel Gafford, Caleb Martin, and Naji Marshall to Los Angeles in exchange for James — a deal that would nearly match LeBron’s $52.6 million salary while allowing Dallas to keep its core of Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, Cooper Flagg, and Luka Dončić intact. “We know all too well that these front offices can negotiate behind the scenes,” Swartz added. “If James is looking for a new home, the Mavericks should be extremely interested in reuniting the four-time MVP with Irving and Davis.”

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Lakers Trade Rumors: Klay Thompson For LeBron James

Why the Lakers Might Listen

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For the Lakers, the idea of trading LeBron James — even hypothetically — would have been unthinkable a few years ago. But with James entering his 23rd NBA season and the final year of his current contract, it’s not out of the question. The 40-year-old remains elite, yet Los Angeles faces a delicate balance between honoring his legacy and preparing for the future centered around Dončić and Anthony Davis.

If the Lakers believe James won’t re-sign in 2026, moving him midseason could at least return valuable pieces. Thompson’s three-year, $50 million contract is team-friendly, and his elite shooting could stabilize a roster that has struggled from beyond the arc. Gafford’s rim-running ability and Martin’s two-way presence would bolster depth, giving the Lakers flexibility without fully dismantling their playoff hopes.

The Mavericks’ Calculated Gamble

For Dallas, acquiring James would be a bold swing at a championship window already built around Irving and Dončić. The chance to reunite LeBron with his former championship teammates could be too tempting for Mark Cuban’s front office to ignore.

Still, the deal would come at a hefty cost — both financially and in terms of long-term depth. Yet if the Mavericks believe James can help deliver one more title, the risk might be worth it.

As Bleacher Report noted, “If James is looking for a new home, the Mavericks should be extremely interested.” That interest may soon test just how far both franchises are willing to go — and how much longer LeBron James plans to call Los Angeles home.

This article first appeared on LAFB Network and was syndicated with permission.

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