The Los Angeles Lakers face salary cap challenges heading into NBA free agency, which could prompt the front office to turn to the trade market. Los Angeles is only expected to have the tax payer exception to use in free agency with any remaining signings likely being veterans who are willing play for less money alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
It remains to be seen what could be behind door No. 2 if the Lakers make a push in the trade market. There at least appears to be some buzz in Vegas that the Lakers could look to bring a former No. 1 pick to Hollywood.
The Lakers are the favorites to trade for Miami Heat star Andrew Wiggins in the betting odds, per Bovada. Los Angeles is listed at +185 to land Wiggins if Miami opts to deal the guard.
Other contenders for Wiggins in the odds are the Toronto Raptors (+300), Phoenix Suns (+375) and a possible return to the Golden State Warriors (+400). These odds are listed with a caveat on if the Heat trade the guard rather than retaining Wiggins.
Let’s dive into the potential blockbuster trade for the Lakers.
LeBron James Nearly Played With Andrew Wiggins on the Cavaliers in 2014
There is an interesting subplot here as LeBron James re-signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers during the same 2014 offseason that the franchise selected Wiggins with the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA draft. The two players were never teammates as the Cavs traded Wiggins to the Minnesota Timberwolves as part of a deal for Kevin Love prior to the season starting.
The Cavaliers opted to surround James with a more established veteran than a rookie like Wiggins. Fast forward to 2025, Wiggins still has two seasons remaining on a four-year, $109 million contract.
The former No. 1 pick has a player option for the 2026-27 season that would allow him to be a free agent as soon as next offseason. James and Wiggins could soon finally be teammates if the latest NBA rumors are true.
Lakers Rumors: LA Is ‘Moving Forward’ With Trade Talks for Andrew Wiggins
Wiggins was rumored to be involved in the Heat’s potential trade packages for Kevin Durant. Ultimately, the Phoenix Suns dealt Durant to the Miami Heat, and it remains unclear what Miami will do with Wiggins. Clutch Points insider Anthony Irwin reported there have been preliminary discussions between the Lakers and Heat about a potential trade for Wiggins.
“The Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat have maintained further negotiations on a trade involving Andrew Wiggins, according to sources with knowledge of the situation, speaking on the condition of anonymity,” Irwin wrote in a June 25, story titled, “Sources: Lakers, Heat moving forward with Andrew Wiggins trade talks.” “The Heat would be looking to land Rui Hachimura and his expiring contract, plus further expiring money to match salaries.
“After reporting the Lakers checked in with the Heat about Wiggins’ price, sources tell ClutchPoints that trade talks have advanced to the next step, though nothing is considered imminent as of right now. ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel previously reported Miami has made Wiggins very available so far this summer and has maintained that stance.”
The Heat landed Wiggins prior to the trade deadline in a four-team deal with the Golden State Warriors. Wiggins averaged 19 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game while shooting 36% from long range during 17 appearances with Miami in 2025.
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