The Los Angeles Lakers’ preferred scenario is for LeBron James‘ contract to drop off their books after next season, according to NBA insider Marc Stein of The Stein Line.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, if James were to become available via buyout, the Golden State Warriors and New York Knicks would be expected to join the Dallas Mavericks in pursuing him. However, Stein was quick to add that a buyout this summer is highly unlikely.

The Mavericks would get LeBron James (from Lakers), Bronny James (from Lakers), Drew Timme (from Nets), Tyrese Martin (from Nets), $1.8 million trade exception (Dwight Powell) and a $1.1 million trade exception (Olivier-Maxence Prosper).

More than his statistical output, the 20-year-old son of NBA superstar LeBron James played with more confidence. During his matchup with Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg at the start of the Las Vegas Summer League, he defended with tenacity and showed the mindset that he wants to stop the best player on the court.

The Los Angeles Lakers have been sending mixed signals about LeBron James, but one executive has strong feelings about him returning.

LeBron James will begin the 2025-26 NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers. According to NBA insider Zach Lowe of The Ringer, trade talks surrounding LeBron and the Lakers have “kind of gotten quiet.” “LeBron’s on the Lakers.

LeBron James has enjoyed the benefit of being completely untouchable in each of his 22 seasons in the NBA. He has never requested a trade in his career and he’s also never been shopped by any of the three organizations he’s played for.