Has an alternate plot line for Howard ever been discussed?

It always seemed like early in the show there was a very different plan for Howard that almost treaded toward a more wholesome ending between him and Jimmy.

During season 4, Jimmy brings motivation to a depressed Howard, refers a client to him, and refers Francesca to a lawyer (who at the time I believe we’re meant to imagine is Howard)

The lawyer that this was remains a mystery (likely because they decided a different direction) and I’d love to know if something like this had ever been discussed during an interview or podcast?