The Los Angeles Lakers offseason has been dominated by chatter about LeBron James’future. It is worth noting that James has a no-trade clause that would allow him to veto any potential deal.
James’ agent Rich Paul attempted to squash the notion that James would sign off on a trade, but the Lakers rumors are not slowing down. If James were to agree to a trade, a return home to the Cleveland Cavaliers could make some sense given the strength of the team’s roster.
Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz floated a wild four-team trade proposal involving the Lakers, Cavs, Charlotte Hornets and Brooklyn Nets. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of this blockbuster trade pitch for James.
Lakers Rumors: NBA Trade Pitch Sends LeBron James to the Cavaliers for Darius Garland
The Lakers land Cavaliers star guard Darius Garland and wing Max Strus in the proposed deal. Cleveland reunites with James, his son Bronny James and nets a 2027 first-round pick (top-two protected from Dallas Mavericks via the Charlotte Hornets).
Charlotte acquires center Jarrett Allen in the deal, while Brooklyn lands Grant Williams, Dean Wade and a 2027 first rounder (lottery protected from the Miami Heat, via Hornets). The deal would pair Luka Doncic with a new co-star in Garland while returning James to the team that drafted him more than 20 years ago.
Swapping Allen out allows the Cavs to keep De’Andre Hunter and pick up a future first-round pick they can use to add young talent or flip in a future trade,” Swartz explained during a July 23, 2025 story titled, “3 Trade Packages To Bring LeBron James Home to Cleveland Cavaliers.” “The Cavaliers would then have $7.6 million left to sign three players.
