Brian Windhorst floats possible Cavs-Lakers pathway involving LeBron James

The Los Angeles Lakers may still expect LeBron James back next season.

But according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, the organization also has to prepare for other possibilities this offseason.

That includes the idea of James potentially leaving Los Angeles altogether.

During a recent ESPN appearance, Windhorst discussed the possibility of the Cavaliers emerging as a legitimate landing spot if James were to consider one final return home.

More interestingly, Windhorst suggested a sign-and-trade scenario could potentially open the door for the Lakers to acquire significant frontcourt help in return.

“If you’re willing to touch the idea of Jarrett Allen, if you’re willing to touch the idea of Evan Mobley, there will be other options, and you explore that pathway,” Windhorst said. “That pathway could lead you to LeBron James.”

To be clear, this was presented as hypothetical discussion — not reporting that trade talks are currently taking place.

Still, the mere mention of Evan Mobley naturally grabs attention.

Mobley just completed another strong season for Cleveland, averaging 18.2 points, 9.0 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.8 blocks while continuing to develop into one of the NBA’s premier young two-way big men.

He also remained productive throughout the postseason despite the Cavs ultimately being swept by the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference finals.

As for Jarrett Allen, league sources have long viewed him as the more realistic trade candidate between Cleveland’s two starting big men should the Cavs eventually decide to significantly reshape the roster.

Today, though, all of this remains speculative.

James has not publicly indicated he plans to leave the Lakers, retire, or seek another championship run elsewhere.

But as long as his future remains unsettled, the Cavs will likely continue surfacing in offseason rumors — fairly or unfairly.