Unlikely Destination Emerges for Lakers Star LeBron James Amid Trade Speculation

The Los Angeles Lakers pulled off one of the most unexpected blockbuster trades in recent NBA memory, landing Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis.

A new report suggests the Lakers could top that with an even bigger trade, naming the Mavericks as a potential destination if LeBron James hits the trade block.

James chose to opt in to the final year of his contract for the Lakers for $52.6 million, but The Athletic's Sam Amick reported that there are growing rumors among front offices that the move could be a precursor to a trade.

"The speculation was rampant all around the league when news of James’ decision broke, with rival executives wondering if this was a precursor to a trade request (James, remember, has a no-trade clause and could thus control any such move)," Amick wrote.

Amick added that there are differing opinions, with some believing that James is just pushing the Lakers to build a title-contendeing team for what could be his final NBA season. 

"Or, of course, it could be yet another attempt to apply pressure to the front office to find a way to add impactful talent," Amick wrote. "Either way, it’s becoming increasingly clear that — even if James doesn’t retire next summer — this could be his last season in a Lakers uniform."