LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers would be shocked if he were traded before Thursday’s deadline, but stranger things have happened in the association. James, who is 39 years old and still playing at an unheard-of level, may sign a free agent contract this summer and leave the Lakers for nothing.

NBA expert Kevin O’Conner recently threw around some fictitious LeBron trades in an article for The Ringer, and the Mavs were one of the teams he used in his thought exercise. The Mavs are trading for James in return for Tim Hardaway Jr., Grant Williams, Richaun Holmes, a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 first-round selection swap, and a 2025 second-round pick.

“LeBron would get the chance to form a Big Three with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, his former running buddy,” writes O’Conner. However, because all three of them have overlapping skills, there would be diminishing rewards. However, as long as Irving and James are prepared to give up touches behind Doncic, the offence could be devastating. It still doesn’t fit right.”

For a 39-year-old player who might leave them in the offseason, it would be risky for the Mavs to give up what little future draft capital they have available, but assembling a “Big 3” with LeBron, Kyrie Irving, and Luka Doncic would instantly put Dallas in the running for the championship this year. And nobody would give a damn if the Mavs win a championship this year.

James is scoring 24.9 points in 45 games, which is by far the most of any player in league history to have participated in a 21st season. In addition to averaging 7.4 rebounds and 7.6 assists per game, he is shooting 52.0 percent from the field and 39.8 percent from beyond the arc for the 26-25 Lakers. Although Rich Paul says his client won’t be transferred, things could change as the deadline draws near. For updates, check out DallasBasketball.com.