Let off for Lakers as they almost lost LeBron James to the Mavericks this summer

Last season, Lebron James averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists, earning himself a spot on the All-NBA Second Team.

The basketballer had an amazing season with the Lakers, but could have left despite helping the team last season.

The Los Angeles Lakers nearly lost superstar LeBron James this offseason, according to John Hollinger of The Athletic, via Sportal.

There were whispers around the league that James had his eye on the Dallas Mavericks before ultimately opting to exercise his player option for the final year of his contract with the Lakers.

Reports indicate James wasn't willing to leave $52 million on the table to sign with the Mavericks or another team using the non-taxpayer mid-level exception (MLE) or something similar, as evidenced by his decision to stay in Los Angeles. A buyout also seems unlikely at this time.

A move to Dallas would have reunited James with former teammates Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving, while also pairing him with this year's No. 1 draft pick, Cooper Flagg. James, who turns 41 in December, has played 22 seasons in the NBA since being drafted in 2003.