In a league-shaking development that’s got the entire NBA buzzing, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly zeroing in on a massive buyout target that could redefine their roster for the post-LeBron James era. Sources close to the situation indicate that the Lakers, fresh off a quiet trade deadline where they swapped Gabe Vincent and a second-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks for sharpshooter Luke Kennard, are now turning their sights to the buyout market with aggressive intent. And at the top of their wishlist? None other than Andrew Wiggins, the $109 million 3-and-D forward currently with the Miami Heat, whose potential availability has the potential to send shockwaves through the Western Conference.
The Deadline Dust Settles: Lakers’ Calculated Patience Pays Off?
The trade deadline came and went with the Lakers making just one move—acquiring Kennard, a reliable three-point specialist who’s expected to bolster their perimeter shooting immediately. But as the dust settles on February 5, 2026, it’s clear that GM Rob Pelinka and head coach JJ Redick are playing the long game. With LeBron James’ future hanging in the balance as he enters free agency, the Lakers are projected to have a whopping $55 million in cap space this summer—the most of any team, according to Legion Hoops. This financial flexibility positions them perfectly to build around their new cornerstone duo: superstar Luka Doncic and rising guard Austin Reaves, who’s predicted to ink a massive $241 million extension to stay in purple and gold.
But why wait until summer when the buyout market is ripe for the picking? The Lakers aren’t content to sit idle. Reports from The Athletic’s Dan Woike highlight their interest in versatile wings like Haywood Highsmith, whose knee issues are being monitored closely but whose “Swiss Army Knife” skill set could provide instant bench spark. Yet, the real blockbuster whisper is around Wiggins, whose $30.2 million player option for next season could lead to an opt-out—or even a buyout scenario if the Heat decide to pivot amid their own roster uncertainties.
Wiggins: The Perfect 3-and-D Fit for the Doncic-Reaves Era
Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report has been vocal about the Lakers pursuing Wiggins as their ideal 3-and-D wing this offseason, but with the buyout window opening, L.A. might not have to wait. Wiggins, a 2022 NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors before his move to Miami, fits the bill perfectly: a stellar defender across multiple positions, a career 35%+ three-point shooter in recent seasons, and a proven big-game performer. Remember his lockdown defense on Luka Doncic himself during the 2022 Western Conference Finals? Now, imagine that synergy flipped—Wiggins guarding the opposition while Doncic spoons feeds him open looks.
In 48 games this season with the Heat, Wiggins is putting up 15.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.2 steals, and a block per game on 47.2% shooting. His $109 million contract extension from his Warriors days underscores his value, but if he hits the buyout market (or opts out and becomes a free agent target), the Lakers’ cap space gives them a clear edge. “The larger chunk of that money should go to a true three-and-D wing—ideally one with big-game experience,” Hughes wrote. “That’s Andrew Wiggins… He’s got a ring, is beloved by teammates, and might be best known for doing a bang-up job guarding hypothetical new teammate Luka Dončić.”
The Lakers’ interest in Wiggins isn’t new—they eyed him at the deadline, alongside names like Herb Jones and Jonathan Kuminga. But with Miami potentially shopping him in packages for stars like Ja Morant or Giannis Antetokounmpo, a buyout could materialize if deals fall through. Bad news hit L.A. earlier when their $109 million forward pursuit stalled at the deadline, per reports, but the buyout market offers a second chance. Pairing Wiggins with Doncic’s playmaking and Reaves’ scoring could drop his individual numbers but elevate the team’s championship odds dramatically.
Broader Buyout Bonanza: Highsmith, Thomas, and More on Radar
While Wiggins represents the crown jewel, the Lakers are casting a wide net. Haywood Highsmith, the athletic forward from Miami, is a key name of interest, provided his knee checks out. His defensive versatility and scoring punch could slot him seamlessly into Redick’s second unit. Then there’s Cam Thomas, the scoring guard waived by the Brooklyn Nets, as announced by ESPN’s Shams Charania. Thomas’ explosive offense could add firepower off the bench, making him a low-risk, high-reward buyout snag.
Lonzo Ball and even Mike Conley (though he’s likely heading back to Minnesota) have been floated as possibilities. The Lakers are also urged to target lob threats like Robert Williams or Mitchell Robinson to round out the frontcourt—names that have lingered in rumors for months. With the buyout market still evolving in the days post-deadline, more surprises could emerge, but L.A.’s focus is clear: upgrade now for a playoff push, then go all-in this summer on stars like Antetokounmpo if James departs.
League On Notice: A New Lakers Dynasty Brewing?
This isn’t just about patching holes—it’s about signaling intent. With Doncic leading the charge and Reaves locked in long-term, adding a $109 million-caliber sniper like Wiggins via buyout would put the entire league on notice. The Lakers’ shift from LeBron’s twilight to a fresh era is underway, and their $55 million war chest ensures they’ll be aggressive. Competitors beware: Hollywood’s brightest lights are about to shine even brighter.
Stay tuned as the buyout frenzy unfolds— the Lakers are just getting started.