The NBA offseason is heating up, and the Cleveland Cavaliers are at the center of a blockbuster trade rumor that could shake up their roster in a big way. After a disappointing second-round playoff exit to the Indiana Pacers in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, the Cavaliers are reportedly considering a major move to address their roster issues. According to a recent report from Cavs Nation, the Cavaliers have their eyes on Los Angeles Lakers forward Dorian Finney-Smith, a premier 3-and-D wing, as a potential trade target to replace center Jarrett Allen in what could be an explosive swap.
The Cavaliers’ Playoff Struggles Spark Trade Talks
The Cleveland Cavaliers entered the 2025 playoffs with high expectations, boasting the best record in the Eastern Conference at 64-18 and securing the No. 1 seed. However, their postseason run came to a screeching halt in the second round, where they were defeated by the Indiana Pacers in just five games. The loss exposed significant flaws in the Cavaliers’ roster, particularly the long-term fit of their frontcourt duo, Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley. Despite their defensive prowess, the lack of spacing and offensive versatility in the two-big lineup has been a recurring issue, especially in the playoffs.
Jarrett Allen, a one-time All-Star and defensive anchor, has been a cornerstone for the Cavaliers since joining the team in 2021. However, his traditional center skillset—focused on rim protection and rebounding—has struggled to mesh with the modern NBA’s emphasis on spacing and versatility. In the playoffs, Allen’s limitations were glaring, as the Pacers exploited Cleveland’s lack of perimeter shooting and defensive flexibility. With Evan Mobley emerging as a more versatile big man capable of playing center, the Cavaliers are reportedly more open to trading Allen than ever before.
Dorian Finney-Smith: The Ideal 3-and-D Fit
Enter Dorian Finney-Smith, a 32-year-old forward who has established himself as one of the NBA’s premier 3-and-D wings. Finney-Smith, currently with the Los Angeles Lakers, has bounced around the league in recent years, playing for the Dallas Mavericks and Brooklyn Nets before landing in LA. Known for his ability to knock down open threes and guard multiple positions, Finney-Smith could be the perfect addition to a Cavaliers roster in desperate need of perimeter help.
According to Cavs Nation, the Lakers are looking to bolster their frontcourt to complement superstars Luka Doncic and LeBron James, making Allen an attractive trade target. A potential Allen-for-Finney-Smith swap could be a win-win for both teams. For the Cavaliers, Finney-Smith’s skillset would address their need for better spacing and perimeter defense, especially against Eastern Conference powerhouses like the Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, and Orlando Magic. Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz noted that Finney-Smith could fit seamlessly into Cleveland’s lineup, particularly if they move on from Allen.
Finney-Smith’s career averages of 8.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game may not jump off the page, but his impact goes beyond the box score. Last season, he shot 38% from three-point range and consistently took on tough defensive assignments, guarding everyone from point guards to power forwards. His versatility would allow the Cavaliers to play smaller, more dynamic lineups while maintaining defensive integrity—a critical need after their playoff shortcomings.
What This Trade Means for Both Teams
For the Cavaliers, trading Jarrett Allen for Dorian Finney-Smith would signal a shift in philosophy. Cleveland has built its identity around elite defense, with Allen and Mobley anchoring one of the league’s best frontcourts. However, the modern NBA demands more offensive flexibility, and Finney-Smith’s ability to stretch the floor and guard on the perimeter could unlock new lineup possibilities for head coach Kenny Atkinson. Pairing Finney-Smith with Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley could create a more balanced roster capable of competing with the East’s elite.
On the other side, the Lakers would gain a much-needed center in Jarrett Allen, who could thrive as a lob threat and rim protector alongside Doncic and James. Allen’s ability to finish at the rim and control the paint would address a key weakness for the Lakers, who have struggled to find a reliable big man in recent seasons. At 27 years old, Allen is still in his prime and could be a long-term piece for a Lakers team looking to maximize their championship window with their aging superstars.
A Game-Changer for the Cavaliers?
As of June 1, 2025, this trade remains in the rumor stage, but the implications are massive for both teams. The Cavaliers are clearly looking to evolve their roster after another early playoff exit, and acquiring a player like Dorian Finney-Smith could be the spark they need to take the next step. Meanwhile, Jarrett Allen’s departure would mark the end of an era in Cleveland, but it might be a necessary move to push the team closer to true title contention.
Will this shocking trade come to fruition? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the Cavaliers are ready to make bold moves to keep pace in the ever-competitive Eastern Conference. Stay tuned for more updates as the NBA offseason unfolds!