The Warriors previously traded Andrew Wiggins to the Miami Heat in order to acquire Jimmy Butler nearly a year ago. Rumors have recently suggested that a reverse scenario could emerge. Still, ESPN’s Anthony Slater reported Thursday, citing a team source, that Golden State has not engaged and does not plan to engage Miami in discussions involving Wiggins.

Wiggins enjoyed a productive tenure with Golden State after arriving before the 2020 trade deadline and departing ahead of the 2025 deadline. During his time with the Warriors, he earned one All-Star selection and averaged 16.7 points while shooting 46.4 percent from the field across 307 appearances, establishing himself as a reliable two-way contributor.

In a hypothetical framework, the Warriors could have considered sending Butler back to Miami along with Jonathan Kuminga and future draft capital. However, that possibility now appears to be off the table as the organization reassesses its priorities following Butler’s injury and the evolving market conditions.

What the Warriors are looking for

Although the Warriors and their fan base maintain a strong appreciation for Wiggins, the premier target on the current trade market remains Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. According to Slater, the Golden State has expressed a willingness to assemble a substantial offer in pursuit of the former MVP, signaling the franchise’s continued ambition to compete at the highest level.

If the Warriors fail to land Antetokounmpo, there appears to be no alternative player on the market capable of generating the same level of asset commitment from the organization. Golden State has also been loosely linked to Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. throughout the season, but team sources have consistently downplayed the seriousness of those discussions.

Meanwhile, reports from Basketball Talk and NBC Sports suggest the Warriors are viewed by some league observers as potential frontrunners in the Antetokounmpo sweepstakes due to the assets they can offer. Golden State possesses up to four future first-round draft picks, resources that represent some of the NBA franchise’s most valuable long-term tools as it balances present contention with future sustainability.

According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, the Heat are actively gauging trade interest in Wiggins, who could potentially become a free agent after the 2025–26 season. “Miami has gauged the trade market on small forward Andrew Wiggins, who has a $30.17 million player option for the 2026–27 season,” Scotto reported.

Interest is not limited to Los Angeles. The Bucks, like the Lakers, have explored a potential Wiggins trade for a considerable amount of time. If NBA insider Jake Fischer is to be believed, that interest dates back to a period before the Lakers even entered the conversation, highlighting how long Milwaukee have monitored the situation.

Fischer wrote, “Other players Milwaukee has displayed some interest in previously include Miami’s Andrew Wiggins and New Orleans’ Dejounte Murray. Milwaukee regularly called about Wiggins during his tenure in Golden State, league sources say.”

The Heat are not letting him go easily

The Heat have reportedly set an asking price of one future first round pick and two rotational players capable of contributing immediately to their playoff push, per ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel. Miami remain focused on staying competitive in the Eastern Conference while reshaping their roster.

The Lakers can match that offer, as they have the expiring contracts of Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent and Maxi Kleber and one tradeable first-round pick (2031 or 2032) to offer in deals. However, some insiders have suggested that they could be holding onto all their draft capital — they can trade three picks over the offseason — in pursuit of a blockbuster trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo or another superstar.

Wiggins’ numbers this season

Wiggins is averaging 16.6 points per game while shooting 48.1 percent from the field and 38.0 percent from three-point range. His best performance to date comes in a November loss to the Detroit Pistons, when he records 31 points, six rebounds, four assists, and three steals, reinforcing his value as a two-way contributor.

Davis has been upgraded to doubtful ahead of Monday night’s matchup against the Heat. He has been dealing with a calf injury that has kept him sidelined since October 29, and the doubtful tag suggests he may need one or two more games before returning to the rotation. Last week, it was reported that Davis could miss seven to ten additional days while the Mavericks continue to monitor his recovery, indicating he might not see minutes on Monday.

On the other hand, there is significant news for Miami. Tyler Herro is reportedly set to make his season debut against the Mavericks on Monday, barring any setbacks. Miami is playing the second night of a back-to-back, so an official injury report has not yet been released, but Shams Charania confirmed that Herro is ready to return from ankle surgery he underwent in September.

According to Underdog NBA, Andrew Wiggins, with a hip strain, and Norman Powell (groin) are both ruled out for Monday’s matchup against the Dallas Mavericks. Wiggins has missed the last three games and is undergoing ongoing evaluation.

Herro’s anticipated return

Herro’s return provides a major boost for the Heat, who currently sit at 11-6 and fourth in the Eastern Conference. The All-Star last season averaged career highs in points (23.9), assists (5.5), and steals (0.9) per game.

He now joins Miami’s high-powered offense, which has been one of the most exciting in the NBA this season, ranking first in pace and points per game. It is unclear whether Herro will have a minutes restriction on Monday, but he is expected to play a significant role when on the floor alongside teammates Bam Adebayo and Norman Powell.

The Heat have managed to maintain strong performance despite the absence of their former star, Jimmy Butler. Through 17 games, Miami leads the NBA with 124.9 points per game. Adding Herro — last season’s leading scorer — to the mix only strengthens their electric offense.

The player Dallas misses

Davis has appeared in only five games this season and played fewer than seven minutes in his fifth before suffering the calf injury. The All-Star forward averages 20.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game this season, shooting 52.0% from the field.

The Mavericks will have several days off following Monday’s matchup, with their next game scheduled for the NBA Cup against the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday. Davis’ recovery appears to be progressing, and there is a possibility he returns for that contest, giving Dallas a much-needed boost.

However, Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reported that the Heat have no plans to trade Wiggins before the 2025–26 season. Miami intends to evaluate his performance and fit with the team before considering any moves at the trade deadline.

Amid this situation, Wiggins is preparing for a new season in Miami. On the first day of training camp, he shared how his comfort level with the team has improved compared to when he first arrived.

“When I first got here, it was more trying to get situated, with the players, with the coaches, and finding my spots,” Wiggins said. “Now, being around the facility almost every day, seeing the coaches, building up that chemistry, being comfortable”.

“I love the competitive nature, love the toughness, not only from the players, but from the coaching staff,” he continued. “Everyone’s main goal is to win. Do whatever it takes to win”.

Erik Spoelstra about Wiggins’ upcoming season

During his first stint with the Heat, it was clear that Wiggins wasn’t yet as comfortable as he had been with the Warriors. Still, the former first overall pick averaged 18.0 points on 44.8% shooting, including 37.4% from three, along with 4.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.0 steals per game across 17 appearances.

Now, Wiggins appears to be in a strong place both physically and mentally, a shift noticed by Heat coach Erik Spoelstra. The move of his family to Miami has contributed to his comfort and focus.

“I’m very pleased with where Wiggs is right now heading into camp; he’s in terrific shape,” Spoelstra said. “He’s been in the gym, really, since the middle of July…But he moved his family down here. His best games, not so coincidentally, last year, are when his family visited. And that’s the type of human being he is. He just wants to have his people around him, the support group, and his family and kids are amazing”.

“He’s put in the time. You can just see it on his face,” Spoelstra continued. “And I think he’s proven himself in this league that he can be such an impactful player, both ends of the court. He can be elite—he can be elite as an offensive player, he can be elite defensively when he’s on top of his game. I think he’s healthy, in shape, and we’ll need all of that from him to embrace being great”.

Though Wiggins had been content in Golden State, he made clear Monday that he was “very excited” to be with the Heat for a full season. While trade speculation followed him during the summer, the Heat ultimately decided in July to keep him. “I feel blessed to be here,” he said. “I feel Miami is a great city that has a great organization. I love my teammates and coaching staff. I’m preparing for a big year.”

He remains one of the best defenders on the team because of his footwork and torque, and he managed to put up solid scoring numbers in 17 games. Still, he wasn’t quite the same player who helped the Golden State Warriors win an NBA title in 2021–22. Now, with a new season ahead, there’s optimism he can show the best version of himself.

Wiggins’ overall numbers in those 17 regular-season games with the Heat were respectable: 19 points, 4.2 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 45.8% shooting and 36% from three. But he struggled finishing at the rim and, like several of his teammates, disappeared in the playoffs.

Lakers rumors and Miami’s decision

In recent weeks, rumors surfaced about the Lakers’ interest in Wiggins, but those talks never went further. According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, despite Los Angeles exploring the idea of acquiring the former No. 1 overall pick this offseason, the Heat had no plans to trade him before the 2025–26 campaign.

“At this time, Miami holds no desire to trade Wiggins before the 2025–26 season, and they are operating under the mindset of evaluating his production and fit before the trade deadline,” Siegel reported, noting the Heat want to see how Wiggins performs early in the season before making any decisions.

That means Wiggins is aiming for a strong start. If he finds his old rhythm and finishes better through traffic, the Heat will add another All-Star caliber option who can relieve pressure from Herro, Norman Powell and Adebayo. Players like Wiggins, who can create their own shot, become even more valuable once defenses tighten in the playoffs.

He will also get the chance to showcase more of his game at the start of the season while the Heat wait for Herro’s return. At age 30, Wiggins still has the energy, wants to prove more, and finds himself in an environment well-suited for his talents.

According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, despite the Lakers exploring the possibility of acquiring the former No. 1 overall pick this offseason, Miami has no plans to trade Wiggins before the 2025–26 season.

“At this time, Miami holds no desire to trade Wiggins before the 2025-26 season, and they are operating under the mindset of evaluating his production and fit before the trade deadline,” Siegel reported, noting the Heat will wait to see how Wiggins performs to start the season before considering any moves.

Wiggins is also expected to take on a larger role with the Heat after The Miami Herald’s Anthony Chiang reported that Tyler Herro will miss the start of the season as he recovers from surgery on his left foot and ankle.

Lakers open to more moves after Doncic’s EuroBasket performance

Doncic’s Slovenia was eliminated in the EuroBasket quarterfinals after a 99–91 loss to Germany, but the Lakers star still turned heads with his dominant play throughout the tournament. He led his national team in scoring, rebounding, assists, steals, and minutes played.

The former Mavericks guard finished the competition averaging 34.7 points, 8.6 rebounds, 7.1 assists, 2.7 steals, and 0.6 blocks in 33.3 minutes per game — one of the most impressive stat lines in recent international play.

That performance has Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka motivated to further strengthen the roster around Doncic and LeBron James. “Luka’s play in EuroBasket made it clear to the entire basketball world that he’s on that incredibly short list of ‘best player on the planet’ candidates, if not at the top,” Pelinka told ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.

“In terms of team building, we’ve talked about the importance of having optionality. And when I use that word, it’s not to say in the future. I think optionality is also in the now. Having both Luka as arguably the best player on the planet and LeBron James, who is still in the mix of being one of the great players in our game, even at his age, continues to allow us to think carefully about the value of that optionality,” he added.

Los Angeles is now exploring multi-year commitments they previously avoided. According to Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times, Andrew Wiggins has emerged as a top target to strengthen their wing rotation and provide much-needed two-way play.

“One area the team is focused on is upgrading the wing, where it needs more two-way talent,” Woike wrote. “A player like Miami’s Andrew Wiggins, whom the Lakers weren’t interested in earlier this summer, is now a more desirable player, provided the price is right.”

The Lakers have made it clear they want to evaluate their current roster before making major moves. With Doncic in the mix and a solid supporting cast that includes LeBron James, Austin Reaves, Deandre Ayton, and Rui Hachimura, the Lakers have depth. Only time will tell if it is enough to keep pace with contenders like the Thunder, Nuggets, and Timberwolves in the Western Conference.

Wiggins could be a perfect fit

If it isn’t, the Lakers are expected to address their wing depth, and Wiggins could be an ideal solution. In 60 games last season, the 30-year-old forward averaged 18.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game while shooting 45.8% from the field. With 11 years of NBA experience, including a championship run with the Warriors in 2022, Wiggins brings proven talent and leadership to any locker room.

Currently, Wiggins is under a two-year, $58 million contract that includes a player option for the 2026-27 season with Miami Heat. A trade would come at a steep price, and Los Angeles would likely seek a commitment from Wiggins to extend his deal, ensuring he doesn’t hit free agency next summer. Alternatively, Wiggins could opt into his contract to delay free agency until 2027.

In the end, the Lakers do not need to rush into a move, but Wiggins is exactly the type of player who could raise their ceiling without compromising long-term flexibility. With Doncic locked in and LeBron still chasing another ring, the championship window remains wide open. Acquiring a proven two-way wing could be the final push Los Angeles needs to get back to the top of the NBA.

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.

Initially, Wiggins’ name was tied to LeBron James and the Lakers. However, Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reports that the Milwaukee Bucks have also shown interest in the Heat veteran, hoping to pair him with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Milwaukee is looking to fortify its roster to remain firmly in the title hunt and ensure Antetokounmpo stays committed to the franchise.

“This offseason, the Miami Heat were willing to discuss trade scenarios involving Andrew Wiggins, and several teams expressed interest in the former NBA champion and All-Star wing,” Siegel wrote. “The Milwaukee Bucks, league sources said, were one of the teams to inquire about Wiggins”.

Despite interest from Milwaukee and other teams around the league, it appears Miami has made its decision regarding Wiggins’ future. The 30-year-old is under contract for the next two seasons with a player option for 2026–27.

“While the Heat ultimately kept the former first overall pick, they were willing to deal Wiggins if they received an instant impact player along with an upcoming first-round pick before 2028,” Siegel added.

The Lakers were also tracking Wiggins closely, viewing him as a potential missing piece for a championship push. But according to Lakers insider Jovan Buha, Miami’s asking price didn’t sit well in Los Angeles.

“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.

Wiggins finished the 2024–25 NBA season strong in Miami, averaging 18.0 points on 44.8% shooting, including 37.4% from beyond the arc, along with 4.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.0 steals per game over 17 appearances with the Heat. Before his midseason move to South Beach, he played 43 games with the Golden State Warriors, posting 17.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game.

“The expectation is the Heat will move forward with Andrew Wiggins on its roster for the start of next season. The Heat wants to see what this mix will look like,” reported Miami Herald journalist Anthony Chiang via his official X account, formerly known as Twitter.

This report brings some clarity to Wiggins’ future after he arrived in Miami back in February as part of the trade that sent Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors.

In his first few months with the Heat, Andrew showed flashes of strong form, particularly in the regular season, averaging 19.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists across 17 games. However, like the team overall, he failed to meet expectations in the playoffs.

Physical issues that limited his availability at key points in the season also raised questions about the 30-year-old’s future. The uncertainty only grew when reports surfaced that Miami had included him in trade offers for Kevin Durant earlier this summer. In that context, teams like the Lakers and Bucks were rumored to be monitoring Wiggins’ situation.

What does Spoelstra think of Wiggins?

On Saturday, Erik Spoelstra addressed the media and was asked directly about Wiggins’ role moving forward. “I think there’s still real opportunity for growth with him as he gets comfortable with us,” the coach told the Miami Herald. “I think that’s going to get a lot better just as he gets more comfortable and acclimated with us, the city, everything with our team and the players and in the locker room, all of that.”

Spoelstra also emphasized how valuable Wiggins could be for the Heat in the near future. “Before he got hurt, he was exactly what we needed and wanted out of that position,” said Erik. “He’s really dynamic defensively. He can guard, in our system, multiple players. Offensively, his skill set is really unique because you can go to him. We probably played him more as a go-to guy than he had been playing in that role previously. Not for better or worse, we just needed that. But he also can play off the ball, which is important.”

The Heat are building something promising

Following a turbulent 2024–25 NBA season that included the departure of their franchise star after weeks of tension, the Miami Heat are now focused on rebuilding a team capable of contending in the Eastern Conference.

With Bam Adebayo now clearly established as the team’s leader, and Tyler Herro playing at an All-Star level, they already have a solid foundation. To that, they’ve added veteran guard Norman Powell, who joins the team after a strong campaign with the Los Angeles Clippers. In that context, a healthy, fully integrated Andrew Wiggins could be a crucial piece for Miami going forward.

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.

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.

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.