With an eye toward shoring up their wing rotation for a deep postseason run, the Los Angeles Lakers have expressed legitimate interest in acquiring Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins, as first reported by Yahoo Sports’ Jake Fischer.
LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Lakers, riding high with an 11-4 record and third-place standing in the competitive Western Conference, are proactively scouring the trade market to address a key roster need. According to a new report from NBA insider Jake Fischer, the franchise has set its sights on Miami Heat veteran Andrew Wiggins as a primary target to reinforce their wing depth.
The Lakers have navigated the early season admirably despite intermittent injury absences from both LeBron James and Luka Dončić. However, with clear championship aspirations, the front office, led by General Manager Rob Pelinka, is looking to add a proven, versatile piece to the core.
Wiggins, the 29-year-old former All-Star and 2022 NBA champion, presents an ideal profile. Currently averaging 16.7 points and 4.9 rebounds per game for the Heat, he offers the specific “3-and-D” (three-point shooting and defense) skill set the Lakers covet. His ability to knock down outside shots, defend multiple positions, and create his own offense would provide invaluable flexibility alongside the high-usage trio of Dončić, James, and Austin Reaves.
“The Lakers have shown interest in Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins,” Fischer reported, noting that the team is expected to “continue to monitor their situation” as the February trade deadline approaches.
Wiggins’ championship pedigree is a significant part of his appeal. During the Golden State Warriors’ 2022 title run, he was widely regarded as the team’s second-most important player behind Stephen Curry, using his athleticism and two-way prowess to make game-changing impacts on both ends of the floor.
A potential trade would likely require the Lakers to part with a combination of role players and draft capital to match salaries and entice the Heat. For a Lakers team fully invested in a “win-now” mode, acquiring a player of Wiggins’ caliber could be the final piece needed to solidify their status as a legitimate title contender.