In a move that shocked the NBA world, the Golden State Warriors traded Andrew Wiggins to the Miami Heat in February 2025 as part of a blockbuster deal to acquire Jimmy Butler. The trade, unexpected by fans and analysts alike, marked a pivotal shift for the Warriors, who managed to turn their season around in the second half, proving the gamble paid off. Yet, despite the success, Wiggins’ departure left a bittersweet sting for Warriors fans who had grown fond of the versatile wing. Recent speculation from NBA insider Marc Stein only deepens the intrigue, as he suggests Wiggins could be on the move again—this time to the Los Angeles Lakers, a scenario that would be nothing short of a nightmare for Golden State loyalists.
Golden State Warriors, Andrew Wiggins
The Trade That Changed Everything
When the Warriors sent Wiggins to Miami, it was a bold and unforeseen decision. Wiggins, a key piece of their 2022 championship run, had been a reliable two-way player for Golden State. His athleticism, defensive tenacity, and clutch performances endeared him to the Bay Area faithful. However, the acquisition of Jimmy Butler, a proven playoff performer with a relentless competitive edge, signaled the Warriors’ intent to maximize their championship window with Stephen Curry still at the helm.
The trade paid dividends. Butler’s leadership and versatility meshed seamlessly with the Warriors’ system, propelling them to a strong second half of the 2024-25 season. The team’s improved performance silenced doubters who questioned the decision to part ways with Wiggins. Still, the emotional weight of losing a homegrown talent lingered, and the latest rumors about Wiggins’ future have reopened old wounds.
Marc Stein’s Bombshell: Wiggins to the Lakers?
On Monday, September 8, 2025, NBA insider Marc Stein dropped a bombshell in his latest report (subscription required), suggesting that Andrew Wiggins could be a trade target for the Los Angeles Lakers. Stein noted that while Wiggins wouldn’t have been on the Lakers’ radar before their acquisition of Luka Dončić, the landscape has shifted dramatically. The Lakers, now boasting a superstar in Dončić alongside LeBron James, are all-in on chasing a championship in the 2025-26 season.
Stein reported that Wiggins is slated to start the season with the Miami Heat, but if Miami prioritizes financial flexibility, they could look to move his hefty contract. Wiggins is set to earn $28.2 million this season, with a $30.2 million player option for 2026-27 that he is likely to exercise. For the Lakers, Wiggins represents an ideal two-way wing to replace Dorian Finney-Smith, who departed in the offseason, leaving a gap in LA’s rotation. His ability to defend multiple positions and contribute offensively makes him an attractive fit for a team with title aspirations.
The Financial Hurdle for Los Angeles
Despite the fit, there’s a significant roadblock: Wiggins’ salary. The Lakers, already navigating a tight salary cap, would need to send out multiple players to match his $28.2 million contract, further depleting their already thin depth. If Wiggins were to struggle in the second half of the season following a potential midseason trade, the Lakers would be saddled with his $30.2 million player option for the following year—a risky proposition for a team prioritizing future flexibility.
This financial burden could deter the Lakers from pursuing Wiggins, but the NBA is unpredictable. A strong start to the season could push Los Angeles to go all-in, especially if they believe Wiggins is the missing piece for a championship run. With LeBron James potentially nearing the end of his storied career, the Lakers might see this as their last chance to win a title in the purple and gold with him leading the charge.
Warriors Fans’ Worst Nightmare
For Warriors fans, the idea of Wiggins donning a Lakers jersey is a bitter pill to swallow. The rivalry between Golden State and Los Angeles runs deep, and seeing a beloved former player join the enemy would be a tough blow. Even though Wiggins’ departure allowed the Warriors to thrive with Butler, his contributions to the franchise—most notably his standout performance in the 2022 NBA Finals—haven’t been forgotten. Rooting against him in Miami is one thing, but cheering against him in Lakers colors would be an entirely different level of heartbreak.
The Warriors, however, have dodged a bullet. By trading Wiggins when they did, they avoided the financial and strategic complications of his contract while reaping the rewards of Butler’s impact. The move showcased the front office’s willingness to make tough decisions for the greater good of the team. As the Warriors continue their pursuit of another championship, they can take solace in knowing they’ve escaped the potential nightmare of being tied to Wiggins’ contract amid his uncertain future.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025-26 season approaches, the Warriors are in a strong position. Jimmy Butler’s addition has reinvigorated the roster, and the team’s core remains as dangerous as ever. Meanwhile, Wiggins’ future hangs in the balance, with the Lakers looming as a potential destination. Whether he stays in Miami or lands in Los Angeles, one thing is clear: the Warriors made the right call at the right time, turning the tables on what could have been a costly commitment.
For Golden State fans, the hope is that Wiggins finds success wherever he goes—unless, of course, it’s with the Lakers. In that case, all bets are off.