Shocking LeBron James Mavericks rumors spark troubling Luka Doncic buzz

LeBron James opted into his final contract year with the Lakers this offseason, sparking trade rumors—particularly linking him to the Dallas Mavericks. However, Dallas only expressed interest if James became a free agent via buyout, not through a trade. Intriguingly, reports surfaced that James considered joining the Mavericks before committing to the Lakers.

New rumors about James potentially signing with Dallas in 2025 free agency excite Mavericks fans but also fuel speculation about his relationship with Luka Dončić. Earlier reports suggested James disliked playing alongside Dončić on the Lakers, making his rumored interest in Dallas—just months after Dončić’s trade to Los Angeles—particularly telling.

This contrasts sharply with James’ longstanding public admiration for Dončić. He previously called Dončić his favorite NBA player, recruited him for Nike’s Team LeBron, and frequently praised his game. The Lakers’ acquisition of Dončić seemed ideal for James’ title aspirations late in his career, yet the Mavericks rumors imply dissatisfaction.

The timing of James’ rumored Dallas interest—weeks after reports of his friction with Dončić—is deemed shocking. Though a Mavericks signing was logistically improbable (requiring a major pay cut), the mere consideration undermines James’ professed enthusiasm about teaming up with Dončić.

Further fueling speculation, James’ agent Rich Paul cryptically emphasized James’ desire to "compete for a title now" shortly after Dončić joined the Lakers. This appeared to disregard Dončić’s MVP-caliber, win-now impact, suggesting James’ camp feels the Lakers prioritize Dončić as their new centerpiece over accommodating James’ future.

If James genuinely disliked playing with Dončić, it raises uncomfortable questions for Mavericks fans about their star’s compatibility with elite teammates, challenging the narrative of their once-mutual admiration.