NBA Rumors: Lakers reportedly want to help LeBron James by adding a key weapon from the Heat

The Los Angeles Lakers have already made waves this offseason by adding Deandre Ayton, but they may not be done making moves. According to multiple reports, the Lakers are now targeting Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins to further strengthen their offensive firepower around LeBron Jamesand Luka Doncic ahead of the 2025–26 NBA season.

Lakers insider Jovan Buha reports that Miami’s asking price for Wiggins is steep. “I’ve reported/shared what I’ve heard, which is that [Miami has] been asking for the first [pick] and Dalton [Knecht], which I think is overpay for Wiggins. I think they also want Rui [Hachimura] too because they want to remain competitive,” Buha said on his YouTube channel.

This isn’t the first time Dalton Knecht has been linked to trade discussions. He was previously included in a proposed deal for Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets, which fell through after concerns surfaced during Williams’ physical exam.

Following Dorian Finney–Smith’s departure to the Houston Rockets, the Lakers are actively seeking a replacement at forward. Wiggins is reportedly one of the top names on their radar.

Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers guards Andrew Wiggins #22 of the Miami Heat during the NBA Playoffs. (Jason Miller/Getty Images)

Wiggins has also been involved in previous trade talks involving the Heat. According to the Miami Herald, the former Warriors forward was part of Miami’s final offer to the Phoenix Suns in a potential blockbuster deal for Kevin Durant. That proposed package included Andrew Wiggins, Terry Rozier, two bench players, and the No. 20 pick in the NBA Draft.

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Wiggins is coming off a strong finish to the 2024–25 season, averaging 18.0 points on 44.8% shooting, including 37.4% from three-point range, along with 4.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.0 steals per game over 17 appearances with the Heat. Prior to his move to Miami, Wiggins played in 43 games for the Golden State Warriors, where he averaged 17.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per contest.

Wiggins played a pivotal role in the Warriors’ 2022 championship run, helping Golden State defeat the Celtics in six games. The 30-year-old forward averaged 18.3 points per game during the Finals, finishing as the team’s second-leading scorer behind Stephen Curry. He also led the Warriors in rebounding, averaging 8.8 boards per contest, showcasing his all-around impact on both ends of the floor.