The Lakers Have Already Decided Where They Stand — But If LeBron Moves to Dallas Mavs, What Happens to Bronny Could Spark Even Bigger Questions
As the NBA offseason heats up, speculation surrounding LeBron James continues to dominate headlines. With the four-time NBA champion opting into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season, many assumed his immediate future remained tied to the Los Angeles Lakers. But recent developments suggest that LeBron’s next move may still be very much in play — and it’s not just his future that hangs in the balance.
The latest twist? A growing wave of rumors linking James to the Dallas Mavericks, raising questions not only about the King’s next destination but also about what such a move could mean for his son, Bronny James, and his place within the Lakers organization.
LeBron’s Future: Loyalty or Opportunity?
According to reports from ESPN, LeBron’s agent, Rich Paul, has been clear about the priorities at this stage of James’ career: competing for championships.
“He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all,” Paul told ESPN.
While LeBron remains under contract, insiders suggest the Lakers are understanding of his ambitions and open to exploring options that align with his championship aspirations. That includes the possibility of James departing — especially if the right circumstances present themselves.
The Dallas Mavericks, fresh off reloading their roster with stars like Klay Thompson, Anthony Davis, and rookie sensation Cooper Flagg, are reportedly keeping a close eye on the situation. However, Dave McMenamin of ESPN notes that the Mavericks’ interest hinges on one condition: a potential Lakers buyout of LeBron’s existing contract.
The Bronny Factor — What Happens if Dad Leaves?
While the focus remains on LeBron’s potential move, an equally pressing question is what happens to Bronny James in that scenario.
Drafted 55th overall by the Lakers just last season, Bronny’s place on the roster has been tied — fairly or unfairly — to his father’s presence. Though critics initially questioned whether Bronny belonged in the league, the young guard began to silence some doubters with a career-high performance against the Milwaukee Bucks last season.
Despite this progress, Bronny’s future has been viewed as largely intertwined with LeBron’s. But sources close to the organization indicate that the Lakers have already made their stance on Bronny clear — regardless of what LeBron decides.
The Lakers’ Quiet but Firm Position
According to multiple reports, the Lakers remain committed to Bronny James as a developing player within their system — even if his father ultimately departs for Dallas or elsewhere.
The 20-year-old guard has split time between the Lakers and their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, where he has shown flashes of potential. While still considered a long-term project, the Lakers’ front office views Bronny as part of their future plans — independent of his father’s next move.
“It’s not just about LeBron anymore,” one league insider shared. “The Lakers drafted Bronny for development purposes. They see the upside and they’re invested in his growth.”
Bigger Questions for the NBA Landscape
Of course, should LeBron make the move to Dallas, it would spark significant changes across the league — for both teams and player narratives.
Would Bronny stay in Los Angeles and attempt to carve his own identity? Could the Mavericks push for a father-son reunion? Would public perception around Bronny shift without the shadow of his father on the same roster?
These questions — and many others — loom large as LeBron weighs his options.
The Road Ahead
For now, LeBron remains a Laker. But with championship aspirations guiding his every decision, the NBA world knows that nothing is set in stone.
One thing, however, is certain: the Lakers have made their position on Bronny known. And if LeBron’s next chapter takes him to Dallas, the ripple effects for Bronny — and the league
— could be bigger than anyone expected.
