The Los Angeles Lakers have spent the last year searching for an answer at center. According to ESPN insider Brian Windhorst, they may already know exactly who they want.
Speaking on ESPN Cleveland, Windhorst revealed that there is a belief around the league that the Lakers would immediately entertain a sign-and-trade involving LeBron James and Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen if the opportunity presented itself.
“There is a belief in Los Angeles that if the Cavaliers were interested, the Lakers would immediately pay attention to a sign-and-trade involving LeBron James for Jarrett Allen. And I think if the Cavaliers were willing to do that, they could probably have LeBron.”
“Obviously, LeBron would have to want to sign with Cleveland. But if your path to paying LeBron is trading Jarrett Allen for him, the Lakers would kill for Jarrett Allen. Kill for him. Alright? They would make that deal in 17-tenths of a second.”
That statement speaks volumes about where the Lakers currently stand. Ever since Anthony Davis was traded to Dallas in the blockbuster deal that brought Luka Doncic to Los Angeles, the Lakers have lacked a true high-level starting center. While Deandre Ayton remains on the roster, his future is uncertain, and Luka Doncic has reportedly pushed the organization to pursue what he considers an “A-list” center.
Allen fits that description. The 28-year-old is coming off another strong season with Cleveland, averaging 15.4 points, 8.5 rebounds, and shooting 63.8% from the field. He remains one of the NBA’s most efficient finishers, elite rim protectors, and best pick-and-roll partners.
More importantly, he appears tailor-made for Doncic. Luka has consistently thrived alongside vertical lob threats. During his time in Dallas, players like Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively II became critical pieces because of their ability to finish around the basket and protect the rim. Allen would provide those same benefits at an even higher level.
The financial side also works in the Lakers’ favor. Allen is under contract for three more seasons at an average salary of roughly $30 million annually. For a player entering his prime, that is viewed as one of the better value contracts among starting centers.
For Cleveland, however, the decision would not be nearly as simple. LeBron James returning home for a third stint with the Cavaliers would instantly become one of the biggest stories in NBA history. The four-time champion delivered Cleveland’s only NBA title in 2016 and remains the most important player in franchise history.
The Cavaliers have reportedly explored pathways to bring him back, whether through a discounted contract or a sign-and-trade arrangement. But losing Allen would come at a high cost.
The Cavaliers have built one of the league’s best frontcourts around Allen and Evan Mobley. Breaking up that pairing to acquire a 41-year-old LeBron would be a massive gamble, even if James remains one of the NBA’s elite players. Last season, LeBron averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds while helping guide the Lakers through another playoff run.
Ultimately, this scenario depends on one person.
LeBron James.
The Cavaliers might be interested. The Lakers would reportedly jump at the opportunity. But unless James wants to finish his career where it started, the conversation remains purely hypothetical.
Still, Windhorst’s comments reveal something important. If Jarrett Allen ever becomes available, the Lakers would be among the first teams in line.
