LA Lakers will go back on offseason decision this season if one player becomes available

Marc Stein says LA Lakers may trade their expiring contracts for Andrew Wiggins

The surplus of expiring contracts helps the Purple and Gold maintain trade flexibility heading into the season.

But in what scenario would the Lakers consider parting ways with their players on expiring contracts? NBA insider Marc Stein shared his honest take on the same.

“The Lakers’ reluctance in the early stages of the offseason to consider trades for contracts that stretch beyond the 2025-26 season has thawed somewhat,” the insider wrote on The Stein Line.

He added: “I don’t think that means they’ll swing a deal for just anyone between now and the Feb. 5 trade deadline, but league sources say L.A. would indeed have interest in adding a two-way swingman who can raise their ceiling

“The sort of player who is likely to interest the Lakers? My read (if Miami were to make him available): Andrew Wiggins.”

Last season, the Miami Heat parted ways with Jimmy Butler by trading him to the Golden State Warriors. In exchange, the Heat received a package around Andrew Wiggins.

While Wiggins is an excellent player, he certainly does not fit the Heat’s current timeline as the franchise will likely build around Tyler Herro.

Marc Stein reveals what makes Andrew Wiggins a potential LA Lakers’ trade target

At 30 years old, Wiggins is still in the prime of his career. Evidently, a championship contender like the Lakers could use his talents.

Stein believes the Lakers weren’t seriously interested in Wiggins until Doncic signed the massive contract extension with the team.

“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,” Stein stated.

“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,” he concluded.

For context, Wiggins will make $28.2 million for the 2025-26 season. He also has a $30.2 million player option for the season beyond that.

With the Heat entering a new era, president Pat Riley may consider getting Wiggins’ deal off the books as soon as possible.