Cleveland Cavaliers Linked to Lakers' Forward as 'Dream' Trade Target

After a disappointing series against the Indiana Pacers in round two of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, the Cleveland Cavaliers are now being featured in trade talks this offseason.

One of the big names that has been mentioned in these rumors is star center Jarrett Allen, as there are multiple teams that need a talented big man next season. And if Allen is on the move, Bleacher Report's Greg Swartz believes that a deal including Los Angeles Lakers forward Dorian Finney-Smith would be one potential "dream trade" for the franchise.

"If the Cavs prefer to keep the core intact and want to add some toughness and defense around the edges, more affordable options are available. Finney-Smith would be a superb 3-and-D starting power forward if Jarrett Allen is traded and the Cavaliers move Mobley to center," wrote Swartz.

If Cleveland does manage to pull off a trade with the Lakers, the deal would most likely revolve around the Cavs giving up Allen instead of Mobley. Los Angeles is in desperate need for a star big man to pair with LeBron James and Luka Doncic. But a trade that involves a talented player like Allen would obviously have to include more from the Lakers, whether it's draft captial or additional players.

When considering this seismic deal, it would take a heavy hit to Cleveland's first apron tax, which means Altman and the front office would have to include another piece in the trade to avoid the tax. With this in mind, it would be easier to find a better suitor for Allen, or to simply keep the 27-year-old center.

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