Andrew Wiggins may finally have the chance to team up with LeBron James after missing out on many years of opportunity.
Recent reports show that the Lakers and the Miami Heat are engaged in serious trade debates centered on the versatile forward.
The heat reportedly calls for a piece that matches his expiration agreement with Louis Hachimura, plus an additional salary match in exchange for Wiggin.
Miami has already made the former champion available and is open to trade this offseason.
This potential partnership represents a perfect circular moment for both players. Wiggins originally had the opportunity to play alongside LeBron James in 2014, when Cleveland drafted him with the number one pick.
However, LeBron reportedly liked to team up with Kevin Love, forcing the Cavaliers front office to make an important decision.
Cleveland eventually traded his first round pick to Wiggins, Anthony Bennett and Minnesota for love. The decision proved to be a success for LeBron and Love, who won the championship together in 2016.
Meanwhile, Wiggins eventually managed to achieve success in Golden State after spending years developing the game in Minnesota.
While Andrew Wiggins did not directly solve the Lakers’ rim protection issues, he brings valuable two-way versatility that could benefit the construction of the roster.
The 29-year-old remains a solid contributor to both ends of the floor. Last season, Wiggins averaged 18 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists 45% off the field.
He surpasses Hitonomura, recording a higher steal and block average per game, representing a clear defensive upgrade.
The former number one pick championship experience with Golden State also adds the veteran leadership that can prove worthy along with LeBron and Luka Donsic in the Lakers’ championship pursuit.
Reports suggest that Miami also pushes Dalton Knecht to be included in any potential deal. The Lakers could resist breaking up with promising newcomers, particularly as they are reluctant to trade first-round picks in 2031 or 2032.
Los Angeles wants to preserve these future assets until it addresses the vacant center location. The Lakers prioritize frontcourt help over wing upgrades in trade discussions.
Miami also moved Kyle Anderson, with $18.8 million left on the deal for two years. The heat is the motivation to create flexibility in your pay cap while acquiring younger assets for restructuring efforts.