The Los Angeles Lakers are poised to make waves in the NBA trade market as they set their sights on Miami Heat’s Andrew Wiggins, according to a recent report by NBA insider Marc Stein. With the Lakers’ offseason already bustling with activity, the potential acquisition of the former No. 1 overall pick could solidify their roster as they aim to maximize their championship window around superstar Luka Dončić.
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Wiggins as a Trade Target
Andrew Wiggins, now 30 years old, is entering the 2025-26 season with a $28.2 million salary and holds a $30.2 million player option for the 2026-27 season. The versatile two-way wing has been a focal point of trade rumors as the Miami Heat contemplate their financial future following Jimmy Butler’s departure. If the Heat prioritize payroll flexibility, Wiggins could become available, and the Lakers are reportedly ready to pounce.
Stein noted, “I wouldn’t have classified him as a potential purple-and-gold target before Dončić’s long-term future was secured, but things are different now.” The Lakers’ confidence in pursuing high-level role players stems from locking Dončić into a three-year, $165 million extension earlier this summer. With their cornerstone in place, Los Angeles is now exploring options to bolster their roster with players like Wiggins, who could provide elite perimeter defense and scoring alongside Dončić.
Potential Trade Packages
For the Heat, moving Wiggins would primarily be a financial decision aimed at reducing payroll and gaining flexibility under the salary cap. Stein outlined a potential trade package that could make this deal feasible for both sides. The Lakers could offer two large expiring contracts in Maxi Kleber and former Heat guard Gabe Vincent, whose combined $22.5 million in salary would come off Miami’s books next summer. This move would provide the Heat with immediate cap relief and potentially allow them to stay below the luxury tax threshold this season.
Alternatively, the Lakers could construct a package around Rui Hachimura, who is entering the final year of his $18 million deal. Stein suggested, “A combination of Hachimura and Kleber (or Vincent) would work financially and allow Miami to clear the full $29+ million off their books for next season.” Such a deal would give the Heat significant cap space moving forward while providing the Lakers with Wiggins’ skill set, which aligns perfectly with their need for a dynamic two-way wing.
Why Wiggins Fits the Lakers
Wiggins’ potential fit with the Lakers is undeniable. Known for his athleticism, defensive versatility, and ability to contribute on the offensive end, Wiggins could serve as an ideal complement to Dončić. His experience as a key contributor during the Golden State Warriors’ 2022 championship run demonstrates his ability to perform in high-stakes environments. For a Lakers team looking to compete for a title, adding a player of Wiggins’ caliber could be a game-changer.
Moreover, the Lakers’ willingness to take on Wiggins’ longer-term contract reflects their newfound flexibility after securing Dončić’s future. Unlike previous years, where financial caution often dictated their moves, Los Angeles is now in a position to pursue high-level talent to round out their roster.
What’s Next for the Lakers?
As the Lakers continue to explore trade possibilities, Wiggins remains a name to watch in the coming weeks and months. If the Heat decide to prioritize financial flexibility, the framework for a blockbuster deal is already in place. The Lakers’ ability to offer expiring contracts like those of Kleber, Vincent, or Hachimura makes them an attractive trade partner for Miami.
For Los Angeles, landing Wiggins could be the final piece in building a championship-contending roster around Dončić. As the NBA landscape continues to shift, the Lakers are positioning themselves to capitalize on opportunities to elevate their team to elite status.
With the trade market heating up, all eyes will be on Los Angeles and Miami to see if this blockbuster deal comes to fruition. If it does, Andrew Wiggins could soon be donning the purple and gold, ready to make an impact on the Lakers’ quest for another NBA title.