The Dallas Mavericks are leading 2-1 in the series against the Los Angeles Clippers, but are not thinking about the offseason for the time being. They are likely to advance past the first round and will likely face the Oklahoma City Thunder, who lead the New Orleans Pelicans with a 2-1 lead.
Still, there's a good chance the Mavericks screw up and lose to the Clippers. Either way, improvement will be a top priority for the Mavericks' front office this offseason as they aim for their first NBA championship since 2011.
Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James may also be looking to change things up this offseason. His current contract is for two years and $99 million, but with a player option this summer, the future of the franchise is in his hands.
James is nearing the end of his playing career. He will turn 40 next season and his son Bronny could be in the league as an opponent or teammate. He doesn't have much left to play as a five-time NBA champion. The Lakers are not set up and there doesn't seem to be a good path to getting into championship contention right away. Then again, the NBA legend might need a change of scenery.
Sports media personality Bill Simmons appeared on his show, The Mismatch, and made predictions about James' next series.
“This is the first time I've been able to see him finish line,” Simmons said on the show. “I think Dallas will be that team.” [he might join on a minimum contract to win his fifth title]. ”
First of all, this is going to be an incredible crossover. The Mavericks, led by NBA great Dirk Nowitzki, defeated LeBron James and the Miami Heat to win the 2011 NBA Championship. They also have one of the biggest markets, and will likely be paired with Luka Doncic and former teammate Kyrie Irving in the immediate championship race.
There aren't many players who can dominate as young as James. Doncic matches that, showing his talent and greatness early in his career. Pair those two with Irving and you'll have one of the most dynamic trios in basketball.
Having James on the bare minimum would help build a roster for a new addition to Dallas, but his on-court fit will be interesting. Doncic needs to have the ball in his hands. He and Irving found a way to coexist and even thrive while sharing the ball. How does James fit into that mix?
It's unclear if James will be a part of it, but the idea of one of the greatest NBA players of all time touching the floor in Dallas on a consistent basis would make for one of the most interesting and entertaining NBA teams of all time.
