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Heat Eyeing 2 Lakers In Critical Trade Talks

Originally posted on LAFB Network | By Ryan Anderson | Last updated Jun 26, 2025 1:34 PM ET

As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare to reshape their roster this offseason, most of the spotlight has centered on their need for interior help. But a growing priority within the front office, according to multiple reports, is adding a two-way wing capable of defending the perimeter and lightening the load on LeBron James.

Enter Andrew Wiggins.

Per ClutchPoints reporter Anthony Irwin, the Lakers have not only “checked in” on Wiggins’ availability but have taken the next step in trade talks with the Miami Heat. “The Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat have maintained further negotiations on a trade involving Andrew Wiggins,” Irwin wrote this week, citing league sources. While a deal is not considered imminent, discussions are reportedly active and evolving.

Lakers-Heat Trade Talks

Los Angeles Lakers Stand To Benefit From Heat-Durant Trade, According To Insider 1 Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

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According to Irwin, the Heat are eyeing Rui Hachimura as the centerpiece of a potential package. Hachimura, who averaged 13.1 points and 5.0 rebounds while shooting 41% from deep last season, is on an expiring deal—an attractive piece for a Miami team possibly looking to retool. However, Irwin notes that Hachimura alone may not be enough to get the deal done.

That’s where Dalton Knecht enters the equation.

Knecht, coming off a promising rookie campaign where he shot 37.6% from three and averaged 9.1 points in just under 20 minutes per game, remains on an affordable rookie deal. Miami reportedly has interest in the former Tennessee standout and “would push” for his inclusion.

If Los Angeles is hesitant to part with Knecht, future draft assets may need to be added to satisfy Miami’s demands.

Wiggins: Still Valuable, Still Versatile

Though Wiggins is no longer the rising star he once was, the 30-year-old still brings value as a switchable defender and capable scorer. After being traded to the Heat in February as part of the Jimmy Butler deal, Wiggins averaged 19 points across 17 games, helping propel Miami into the playoffs.

For the Lakers, adding Wiggins could be a key move to stabilize their wing rotation—and send a strong message that they’re serious about contending now.

This article first appeared on LAFB Network and was syndicated with permission.

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