LeBron James would only join Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, Duke legend Cooper Flagg on Mavs after buyout from Lakers

For the first time in his career, LeBron James lacks complete organizational control. Throughout his stints with the Cavaliers, Heat, and Lakers, he consistently used the threat of leaving as leverage to get his demands met, a strategy that contributed to winning four championships and becoming one of the highest-paid athletes. However, at age 40, the Lakers' management, focused on building around Luka Doncic, is no longer giving in to his demands.

Facing this reality, speculation arises that LeBron might seek a move to a team better positioned to "win now" for another championship ring. Reportedly, one potential suitor, the Dallas Mavericks, would only be interested in acquiring him if he becomes a free agent via a buyout from the Lakers. This cautious approach is attributed to the difficulties of acquiring players under the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), meaning Dallas would only pursue him if he came at a discount and was fully committed.

If LeBron were to join Dallas, he could reunite with former teammates Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis. Additionally, he could form an exciting forward pairing with highly-touted Duke product and rookie Cooper Flagg, leading to speculation about dynamic plays like LeBron throwing Flagg an alley-oop.