NBA insider Marc Stein has revealed that LeBron James exhibits real curiosity about the possibility of playing for the Dallas Mavericks. This interest stands out given LeBron’s deep ties to Los Angeles and the strong connections he already holds with several individuals affiliated with the Mavericks organization.
LeBron’s Existing Relationships with Mavericks Personnel
LeBron James has several past and present links to Dallas personnel, including former teammates and coaches. He shared the court with Kyrie Irving on the Cleveland Cavaliers and with Anthony Davis and D’Angelo Russell during his time with the Los Angeles Lakers. Additionally, he has been coached by Jason Kidd and Phil Handy, both connected to the Mavericks.
I believe that LeBron James does have some genuine curiosity about playing in Dallas,
Stein wrote.
Bear in mind that he is extremely settled off the floor in Los Angeles. It has been his family’s primary home base for the past seven years and he is building a new home in Beverly Hills. To play elsewhere at this stage of his life and career could well require a landing spot that can provide a special level of comfort to take him away from all that.
—Marc Stein, NBA Insider
The Mavericks would seem to be uniquely suited to offer that with so many people in Dallas he already knows well, from general manager Nico Harrison and coach Jason Kidd to former teammates Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving.
—Marc Stein, NBA Insider
Current Trade and Contract Situation
The Mavericks have no intention of trading for LeBron James, especially considering his upcoming $52.6 million salary for the next season. However, Dallas might consider signing LeBron if he is bought out by the Lakers, though this scenario appears unlikely. Despite approaching his 41st birthday, LeBron continues to perform at an elite level, having finished sixth in MVP voting and securing a spot on the All-NBA Second Team last season.
Future Outlook and Potential Moves
LeBron will become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2026, marking the first time since 2018 that he will have this status. Should he continue playing beyond next season, many will watch closely to see where he ultimately lands in the 2026-27 NBA season, with Dallas remaining a possible destination due to his existing relationships and mutual interest.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does LeBron James sleep 12 hours?
A. Professional athletes use more energy than most people, so they usually sleep more than the suggested 8 hours. For instance, LeBron James typically sleeps about 12 hours each night. This is noteworthy since top athletes frequently travel for games, which can make getting enough sleep challenging.