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Why Miami Heat ruled out Andrew Wiggins move to LA Lakers, with LeBron James involved

Originally posted on HITC | By Aaditya Krishnamurthy | Last updated Sep 21, 2025 10:09 AM ET

A decade-old action by LeBron James may have prevented the LA Lakers from acquiring Andrew Wiggins.

The Los Angeles Lakers have put together a solid offseason, filling some key gaps in their line-up.

Once Dorian Finney-Smith left in free agency, the team had to address a clear need for better wing defenders.

In response, they added Deandre Ayton and Jake LaRavia to help strengthen their rotation. Marcus Smart also joined the Lakers, with Luka Doncic playing a part in making that move happen.

And even after those additions, they are not done yet. The Lakers are interested in bringing in Andrew Wiggins, but an old LeBron James decision might be standing in their way.

Pat Riley still upset over LeBron James leaving Miami Heat, will not trade Andrew Wiggins

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An anonymous NBA executive told Lakers Daily that the chances of a Wiggins deal coming together are slim.

The sticking point, according to the executive, is Pat Riley’s lingering resentment towards LeBron for his exit from the Heat years ago. Because of that, the president is not open to making a trade that would strengthen the icon’s side.

“I would be stunned if Pat did this trade. You really think Pat wants to help LeBron [James]? He’s still mad about LeBron leaving Miami. I don’t see it happening,” said the anonymous source.

It would be “stunning” if the Heat trade Andrew Wiggins to the Lakers, per @LakersDailyCom

“I would be stunned if Pat did this trade. You really think Pat wants to help LeBron? He’s still mad about LeBron leaving Miami. I don’t see it happening.”

(https://t.co/rB2Q1az8se) pic.twitter.com/qzmWIRuFoL
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) September 20, 2025

LeBron’s move back to Cleveland did not go over well with Riley at the time, and given how much Miami struggled in the years after his departure, it is not exactly shocking that hard feelings have stuck around.

Pat Riley’s grudge may be costing Miami Heat valuable trade opportunities

Wiggins will remain with the Miami Heat for now, a decision that once again exemplifies Riley’s tendency to prioritize his pride and personal feelings in managing the team.

Miami’s reluctance is not just about old wounds, though. They are also holding on to Wiggins in hopes that his trade value will rise.

This is not the first time Riley has been slow to move. Last season, Miami held on to Jimmy Butler too long and got less in return than they had hoped for.

If this continues, there may be pressure within the organisation to limit Riley’s decision-making power.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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