LeBron James and Luka Doncic in action (Image via Getty) The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves in NBA trade discussions with speculation surrounding Andrew Wiggins. With Luka Dončić secured long-term and LeBron James still leading the charge, the front office is looking for a versatile two-way wing to complete its championship puzzle. Wiggins, a former No. 1 overall pick and 2022 NBA champion, could be exactly what Los Angeles needs.
How a Wiggins-to-Lakers Trade Could Take Shape
The most realistic framework involves a multi-team trade. In this scenario, the Los Angeles Lakers would send Rui Hachimura, Dalton Knecht, and draft picks as part of a package to the Miami Heat. Miami could also loop in the Brooklyn Nets, creating a three-team swap where Los Angeles acquires Andrew Wiggins, along with Jaime Jaquez Jr. from Miami and Drew Timme from Brooklyn. Miami, meanwhile, would receive younger players to reshape its roster.The Heat are holding firm on their demands, insisting on a first-round pick in addition to young assets to offset Wiggins’ $28.2 million salary for 2025-26 and his $30.2 million player option for 2026-27.
Why the Los Angeles Lakers Want Andrew Wiggins
Andrew Wiggins (Image via Getty)
For the Los Angeles Lakers, the move makes basketball sense: • Defensive stability: Wiggins’ ability to guard multiple positions would plug a glaring hole in Los Angeles’ perimeter defense. • Playoff reliability: He was instrumental in Golden State’s 2022 title run and brings valuable postseason experience. • Offensive consistency: Averaging 19 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists last season with Miami, Wiggins provides scoring in catch-and-shoot and isolation sets.
What the Heat Would Gain in Return
The Heat’s motivation is rooted in flexibility and growth: • Cap relief: Offloading nearly $30 million in salary creates much-needed breathing room. • Youth infusion: Players like Hachimura could develop into long-term contributors. • Future planning: Extra cap space sets Miami up for major moves in 2026.
Pros and Cons of the Deal
By the Numbers: Comparing Wiggins and Hachimura
My Two Cents on Who Wins the Trade
In the immediate future, the Los Angeles Lakers would come out ahead. Andrew Wiggins checks every box for a team aiming to win now alongside Dončić and James. His defensive versatility and championship background could push Los Angeles into serious contention in the West.For Miami, the upside lies in the long game. Cap flexibility and youth development matter, but the Heat risk weakening their present roster by losing one of their most reliable two-way contributors.Also read: NBA Trade News: Los Angeles Lakers Sign Tevian Jones to Exhibit 10 Deal, Waive Jarron CumberlandIf completed, this blockbuster could reshape both franchises – giving the Los Angeles Lakers a chance at glory now and offering Miami the tools to retool for tomorrow.