Kawhi Leonard is largely seen as the single asset that could “clinch” a LeBron James departure to the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason. Yet, according to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, the two superstars have yet to exchange words this summer regarding a potential partnership.

via RealGM:

“As for Kawhi, I have been assured very strongly that LeBron has not communicated with Kawhi, not only during this process but for a very long time,” said Windhorst in The Land On Demand podcast. “He has really not spoken to him and expressed a desire to play with each other.”

Article Continues Below
More Los Angeles Lakers News
Coco Gauff of the United States poses with the trophy after winning the women’s singles final against Aryna Sabalenka on day 14 at Roland Garros Stadium.
LeBron James erupts with huge reaction to Coco Gauff’s French Open winLorenzo J Reyna ·
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Kobe Bryant, Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Lakers
How Shai Gilgeous-Alexander draws ‘influence’ from Kobe BryantTomer Azarly ·
LeBron James, Stephen (Steph) Curry, who may be heading to an ESPN NBA broadcasting booth after they retire, after Lakers-Warriors game on December 25, 2024.
ESPN has ‘hopeful’ LeBron James, Stephen Curry wishAndrew Korpan ·
Chris Paul rescinded NBA trade Lakers Hornets
Chris Paul shuts down Hornets-Lakers trade conspiracyJulian Ojeda ·
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates with Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) during the fourth quarter.
Luka Doncic’s offseason body transformation has Lakers fans hypedJedd Pagaduan ·
Lakers' Shaquille O'Neal stands next to Kobe Bryant with GOAT signs in background
Shaquille O’Neal has no regrets over treatment of Kobe BryantRandall Barnes ·

Leonard is very much an object of pursuit by the Los Angeles Lakers, now that Paul George has raised suspicions of potentially staying with Oklahoma City after a reported strong relationship with co-star Russell Westbrook.

The Klaw represents their insurance policy and the only other max-level star that could entice James to jump ship this summer.

With less than 24 hours left before the deadline to opt in or out of the last year of his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Lakers are pulling on all horses to get a trade done with the San Antonio Spurs, despite being met with initial indifference and the organization's reputation as a tough negotiator.