Lakers trade idea sends newly-acquired $215 million star guard back to Mavericks

NBA player reunion ideas are becoming more popular than ever. 

When high-profile assets leave their initial homes, individuals frequently craft intriguing scenarios that return them to their old franchises. 

The Smoking Cuban’s Noah Weber shockingly believes the Los Angeles Lakers’ newly-acquired superstar guard could reunite with the Dallas Mavericks this offseason in a shocking summer trade. 

"While Doncic has voiced that he plans on staying in Los Angeles into the future and giving them the same loyalty that he showed Dallas for the first six and a half seasons of his career, ESPN's Dave McMenamin reported that he will ‘take his time with his decision’ this summer."

"If Doncic doesn't sign an extension, this would give the Mavericks the chance to pursue him in free agency next year (assuming he opts out of his player option after next season).”

"Tons of change would likely have to happen for Doncic to return to Dallas, including firing (Nico) Harrison and (Patrick) Dumont issuing a heartfelt apology for everything that has transpired since the trade, and even though this seems like a shot in the dark at this point, anything is possible.”

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"Doncic wanted to retire a Maverick and bring them their first title since 2011, and his return would bring life back to Mavericks basketball once again.”

Doncic was a breath of fresh air for a Mavericks franchise that needed a much-needed lift. 

Doncic, who landed with Dallas in 2018 (traded from Hawks to Mavericks on draft night), guided the Mavericks to three playoff appearances in his first four seasons before enduring a breakthrough 2023-24 campaign. 

The Slovenian phenom guided Dallas to an NBA finals appearance, losing to the Boston Celtics in five games.

Doncic was expected to lead the charge for Dallas for the foreseeable future, but the Mavericks had other plans. 

Midway through the 2024-25 season, Dallas shocked the world by trading the intelligent 6-foot-2 phenom to the Lakers in a multi-team deal (headlined by Doncic and Anthony Davis). 

Doncic was reportedly crushed after the stunning move, but his play on the hardwood didn’t deteriorate in Los Angeles.

The Lakers were undoubtedly a stronger ball club this year with Doncic joining the storied franchise. 

Doncic, James, and Austin Reaves were a dynamic trio toward the end of the regular season, helping the organization get hot at the right time and secure 50 wins after a concerning start. 

Disastrously, the Minnesota Timberwolves sent the Lakers home in the first round of the playoffs.

Still, it doesn’t change that Doncic is loved and valued in Los Angeles.

The young stud will likely sign an extension with the Lakers in free agency, giving his new squad a chance to capitalize on Dallas’ massive mistake.

More NBA: Lakers could cut ties with $215 million ex-Mavericks star via blockbuster trade, per writer