Following news of Kyrie Irving luring the four-time MVP to Dallas to join him and Luka Doncic, LeBron James dominated the headlines. The Dallas Mavericks have made it clear that they intend to create another superteam as they enter the offseason.
According to rumors, Irving is open to working with his former teammate. But in the prospective deal, it won’t be the All-Star point guard who switches teams. The ex-Cleveland Cavaliers guard has stated his desire to join LeBron in Dallas and create a “Big 3” with Doncic.
Unfortunately, the Los Angeles Lakers are unwilling to part with their All-Star forward for just a few backup players. According to recent revelations, the Lakers will only consider dealing James if Docic is included. However, it is evident from the Mavs’ statements that they are unwilling to part with their Slovenian star.
According to Jovan Buha of The Athletic, the Lakers will only consider trade proposals that include acquiring Doncic.
“Yes, one would assume the Lakers will listen if Dallas offers Luka Doncic in exchange for James.” Buha penned.
It appears like the Mavericks are more focused on building a superteam around Doncic. Despite how intriguing it may sound, it might diminish their depth as a team. They might be able to persuade the other players to accept a wage cut in order to sign them and build a strong squad, but this is improbable.
In the following summer, Irving will be an unrestricted free agent and may want a contract for $200m. Given the current information on his attempt to sign James, it may indicate that he has acclimated to the team and may re-sign with Dallas.
On the other side, LeBron James is now finishing the two-year contract he signed in the summer.