Dallas Mavericks showed interest, LeBron considered it, but the financial reality and franchise priorities ended the speculation for good

Los Angeles Laker star LeBron James repeatedly had eyes on the Dallas Mavericks before opting in to a one-year deal with the Lakers.

In fact, "there were whispers in league circles about LeBron James having eyes for Dallas," Hollinger reports. But the four-time NBA MVP was not willing to pass on $52.6 million with the Lakers for a non-taxpayer mid-level exception to sign.