Less than a month remains until NBA training camps, and teams are making their final moves to prepare for the upcoming season. Among them, Los Angeles Lakers are aiming to strengthen their roster, reportedly targeting a teammate of Tyler Herro from the Miami Heat.
One player the Lakers have been linked to this offseason is Andrew Wiggins of the Miami Heat. Longtime NBA reporter Marc Stein believes the Lakers remain interested. “The sort of player who is likely to interest the Lakers? My read (if Miami were to make him available): Andrew Wiggins,” Stein said.
“Wiggins, 30, will earn $28.2 million this season and holds a $30.2 million player option for 2026-27,” Stein added. “I wouldn’t have classified him as a potential purple-and-gold target before Doncic’s long-term future was secured, but things are different now. So my sense is that the Lakers would have interest if the Heat, in coming weeks or months, decide to prioritize financial flexibility and look to reduce payroll.”
While Wiggins would be a strong fit for the Lakers, the Heat have made it clear they are not looking to trade him at this time. Some reports have also suggested that Lakers have not actively pursued the 30-year-old, leaving his potential move in question.
What would Wiggins bring to the Lakers?
The addition of Deandre Ayton addressed the Lakers’ issues in the paint, but perimeter defense remains a concern. Andrew Wiggins, currently with the Miami Heat, emerges as an ideal candidate to fill that gap. At 30 years old, Wiggins offers a unique profile: an athletic wing capable of defending top scorers while contributing efficiently on offense.
During the 2024-25 season, Wiggins averaged 18 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists, shooting 37.4% from three. His role in the Warriors’ 2022 title run—where he limited Jayson Tatum to 36.7% shooting in the Finals—demonstrates his ability to deliver in high-pressure moments.
Wiggins’ potential impact for the Lakers goes beyond defense. His ability to score in transition, attack the rim, and knock down open threes (36% in 17 games with Miami) would make him a perfect complement to the Lakers’ offensive system, similar to how he thrived under Spoelstra alongside Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo.
Although trade talks have cooled, the possibility of revisiting them remains, especially following Norman Powell’s arrival in Miami. With a top-heavy roster, the Lakers could use Wiggins’ versatility to support Doncic and LeBron, who are not known for their perimeter defense.