Rumors indicating that LeBron James could leave the Cleveland Cavaliers and join the Los Angeles Lakers are getting stronger by the day. Now, LeBron’s wife, Savannah Brinson wants to live in Los Angeles Full Time, fueling reports that the superstar could showcase his talent in Hollywood in 2018.
According to Kevin Ding of Bleacher Report, after the Cavaliers lost to the Golden State Warriors in the 2017 NBA Finals, whispers emerged that James in interested in a final chapter in Los Angeles.
It was not a secret that James appreciates the Lakers brand for a long time. Aside from the Lakers, James also embraces the New York Yankees and the Dallas Cowboys.
Aside from his love for the Lakers, James already has dealings in Hollywood due to his partnership with Warner Bros. In addition, James already has a history of leaving Cleveland and joining a big-market team that is a assembling a championship-quality team. The Lakers are interested in Paul George, who recently told the Indiana Pacers that the upcoming season will be his last with the team. George will be an unrestricted free agent next season and he could join the Lakers with James.
Cavaliers working on trade for George
James may not leave the Cavs in case they swing a trade for George this offseason. According to Joe Vardon of the Cleveland Plains-Dealer, the Pacers have contacted the Cavs about a possible trade for George. While George is basically a one-year rental for the Cavs, his offense will be a big help for Cleveland to challenge the Warriors next season.
The Cavs could trade Kevin Love to the Pacers for George. Love stands to earn $22.6 million next season while George is due $19.5 million by the Pacers. The Cavaliers can also convince George to sign a long-term deal with the team and help their cause for a second NBA title.
Las season, George averaged 23.7 points and 6.6 rebounds for the Pacers.
In the opening round against the Cavs, George averaged 28 points but the Pacers were swept by James and company. The Cavaliers went on the advance to the NBA Finals but were beaten by the Warriors in five games.
Cavs also eyeing Jimmy Butler of Chicago Bulls
According to ESPN, the Cavaliers are also working on a multi-team trade to acquire All-Star Jimmy Butler of the Chicago Bulls. Sources said the Cavaliers plan to put up trade packages that would entice the Bulls to give up Butler. The Cavaliers need a third team that will supply draft picks or young players that will help make the offer more appealing.