After weeks of social media buzz, trade machine scenarios and endless debate among Mavericks fans, the LeBron James to Dallas saga appears to have reached its natural conclusion with new reporting that clarifies exactly where both sides stand.

This article was originally published on www.si.com/nba/mavericks as Kyrie Irving makes honest Luka Doncic, Kevin Durant, LeBron James statement.

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

LeBron James was offered an NFL contract with the Dallas Cowboys in 2011. The NBA was in lockdown, so LeBron was considering the NFL.

LeBron James considered joining the Dallas Mavericks before opting-in to his $52 million player option. Colin Cowherd says that LeBron is 'no longer about winning'.

More than his statistical output, the 20-year-old son of NBA superstar LeBron James played with more confidence. During his matchup with Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg at the start of the Las Vegas Summer League, he defended with tenacity and showed the mindset that he wants to stop the best player on the court.

LeBron James is staying with the Los Angeles Lakers at least for now. The four-time NBA champion picked up his $52.6 million player option to return to the Lakers for an eighth season, which marks his longest continuous stint with any team in his career.

The Los Angeles Lakers’ preferred scenario is for LeBron James‘ contract to drop off their books after next season, according to NBA insider Marc Stein of The Stein Line.