Dwight Howard has no financial incentive to agree to an extension with the Lakers, which means he will become a free agent in July.
Howard will have one full season with the Lakers before committing to a long-term deal.
Depending on how Howard's experience with the Lakers progresses, he may consider signing for less money with the Mavericks. Dallas, who Howard reportedly preferred over the Lakers, appears intent on preserving their cap space for 2013.
"Dallas will be there for him," said one source.