Cleveland also keeps three members of its core four (Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen) with players such as Lonzo Ball, Larry Nance Jr., Sam Merrill, Dean Wade, Jaylon Tyson and others still on the roster.

John Hollinger of The Athletic suggested that it would be a good idea for the Lakers to trade James before this winter's trade deadline if they don't start off the season well.

Philadelphia would retain its young core, which includes 2024 first-round pick Jared McCain and VJ Edgecombe, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. McCain was the frontrunner for the Rookie of the Year award before sustaining a season-ending torn meniscus in December.