LeBron James Rumors: Kawhi Trade Would Significantly Help Lakers' Chance at Deal

If San Antonio Spurs star Kawhi Leonard forces a trade to the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James may not be far behind him.

According to Sam Amick of USA Today, "If Leonard found his way to Laker Land, where he would likely make it clear that he'd re-sign as a free agent in the summer of 2019, it is widely believed that it would significantly increase the Lakers' chances of landing James in free agency this summer."

The summer Lakers fans are dreaming of goes as follows: Leonard is traded to L.A. and signs a long-term extension, James joins in free agency and Paul George—whose desire to play for his hometown Lakers has long been rumored—follows suit. Then that trio topples the Golden State Warriors dynasty and wins a multitude of titles. 

It's the perfect storm for the Lakers, but the forecast remains hazy. 

For starters, the Spurs could trade Leonard elsewhere or keep him. Only San Antonio can offer Leonard a supermax contract, and the team doesn't exactly seem inclined to deal with the Lakers, especially if Lonzo Ball is being offered in the trade, as ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski noted: 

Additionally, Wojnarowski and colleague Ramona Shelburne reported, "The Spurs are unlikely to be motivated to facilitate a deal to the Lakers, league sources said."

So Leonard can push for a trade to the Lakers, but he may not get it.

And while teaming up with Leonard in L.A. would likely be appealing for James, it isn't a guarantee he'll join the Purple and Gold. Perhaps he'll stay in the Eastern Conference and re-sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers or go to the Philadelphia 76ers. Maybe he believes joining the Houston Rockets would give him a better chance of winning a title. 

James' intentions remain a mystery, at least publicly.

George, too, could re-sign with Oklahoma City and try to make a run with Russell Westbrook. So there are a lot of moving pieces in the Lakers' dream summer. 

But there is also the hope that all three could end up in Los Angeles. Landing Leonard would be a huge start.