The Lakers and Heat have reportedly reignited trade talks involving Andrew Wiggins ahead of training camp. While many observers assume the Lakers are looking to acquire a reliable wing to help Luka Doncic pursue a championship, the real focal point of this potential deal, in my view, isn’t Doncic—it’s LeBron James.
According to Heat media insiders, “Miami should keep Wiggins unless the Lakers are willing to offer Rui Hachimura, Max Christie, and a first-round pick. Wiggins contributes on both ends of the floor and is overall a positive asset for the Heat.” In other words, Miami isn’t opposed to trading Wiggins—the key question is what assets the Lakers are willing to part with. Had the Lakers offered Hachimura, Christie, and a first-round pick, the deal might already have been completed.
So why haven’t the Lakers made such an offer? The main issue is Wiggins’ role and contract. Wiggins would clearly improve the Lakers’ roster, providing much-needed defense, perimeter shooting, and off-ball movement compatible with a ball-dominant star. However, his contract has two years remaining, totaling $58.4 million—$28.2 million for the 2025-26 season and $30.2 million for 2026-27, with a player option in the final year. This partly explains why the Lakers are hesitant about pulling the trigger.
The crux of the matter is LeBron’s contract situation. With just one year remaining on his deal, any addition of Wiggins isn’t merely about adding another wing—it’s about finding a secondary star who can complement or eventually succeed LeBron. Currently, Austin Reaves is considered the team’s second option, but his playoff performances have exposed limitations, and he clearly isn’t ready to shoulder that responsibility. Wiggins’ 2026-27 player option further complicates matters, as it’s uncertain whether he would commit long-term to the Lakers or be willing to play a secondary role for Luka. This uncertainty is what makes the Lakers cautious about pursuing the trade aggressively.
