Andrew Wiggins enters the 2025-26 season with the Miami Heat, having played a pivotal role since his February acquisition in the trade that sent Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors. Last year, Wiggins showcased his defensive versatility, capable of guarding positions from shooting guard to power forward, while contributing in transition and spot-up scoring. Wiggins was the Heat’s second-highest scorer after Tyler Herro, averaging 19 points per game. His ability to fit seamlessly alongside stars like Herro and Bam Adebayo has made him an indispensable part of the Heat’s rotation, even as developmental players receive significant minutes.

Despite his importance to Pat Riley and the Heat, the Los Angeles Lakers have expressed renewed interest in Wiggins, seeing him as a valuable complementary piece alongside LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves. Wiggins’ defensive acumen and willingness to accept a secondary role make him a potential asset for the Lakers, who seek to bolster their perimeter defense while adding a proven two-way wing who can contribute with points. The 30-year-old won the NBA Championship with the Warriors in 2022 and his veteran presence will undoubtedly help the Lakers on both ends of the court.

However, he appears to be staying put. “Nothing from the Heat side at this point,” 5 Reasons Sports reported, indicating that Miami is not actively entertaining trade discussions. While rumors have swirled, sources close to the organization emphasize that potential discussions remain speculative, with the team’s priority on preserving their competitive roster. That is understandable, especially considering the impact Wiggins has had since arriving at Miami.

Evan Sidery weighed in on the potential trade package, saying, “The Heat and Lakers have reopened discussions on a potential Andrew Wiggins trade ahead of training camp. Los Angeles is very open to moving former first-round pick Dalton Knecht alongside necessary expiring salary. Miami wants a future first-round pick attached in the package.” The package under consideration could involve Rui Hachimura ($18.2M guaranteed in 2025-26) and Knecht ($4M guaranteed, with team options for 2026-27 and 2027-28), which would effectively match the rough $28 million Wiggins is owed for the upcoming season.

However, despite that Riley and the Heat appears focused on keeping the roster intact. “Absolutely nothing coming from the Heat indicates a willingness to step back in the moment to step forward in the future,” Ira Winderman wrote for the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, highlighting the team’s commitment to immediate competitiveness. In addition to Wiggins’ $28.2 million salary this season, he has a player option for $30.2 million in 2026-27, represents a significant cap hit. Still, he adds that “for the coming season, the Heat would be better with Wiggins than the combination of Hachimura/Knecht.” The team’s strategy prioritizes defensive versatility and roster cohesion over short-term financial relief.

Beyond immediate talent and contracts, Miami’s focus appears to be on maintaining continuity and team chemistry. Winderman highlights that the Heat’s developmental core and established veterans give them a competitive edge even without trading Wiggins. Rather than risk disrupting rotations or the balance that helped them last season, the organization seems prepared to see how the roster performs in its current form, treating Wiggins as a key piece for defensive versatility and on-court leadership, while keeping options open for strategic moves next summer. Of course, the Heat finished 10th in the East last season, so there is obviously room for improvement.

Breaking down the Andrew Wiggins Trade Debate and Lakers’ Strategy

The Heat’s current roster, with Wiggins, Tyler Herro, Norman Powell, and Bam Adebayo, provides a unique combination of defense and scoring efficiency. However, moving Wiggins would hinder the team’s short-term goals despite the expiring contracts creating salary flexibility. By prioritizing cohesion and keeping a proven defender in Wiggins, Miami is betting on maintaining playoff contention rather than gambling on potential future cap space.

The potential return package presents both opportunities and limitations. Hachimura provides a scoring wing, while Knecht is a low-cost developmental guard, but neither offers the combination of defensive versatility and championship experience that Wiggins brings. The Heat must weigh the incremental benefits of salary relief against the immediate drop in two-way capability, a calculation that Winderman suggests likely favors keeping Wiggins intact.

From the Lakers’ perspective, acquiring a player of Wiggins’ archetype is a must. NBA analyst Jovan Buha detailed Los Angeles’ roster needs, saying that one of “the two biggest holes on the roster” is a “better two-way starting option that slots.” He noted that Rui Hachimura isn’t an ideal fit alongside Luka Doncic. “A guy like a Wiggins or someone of that ilk… they need that type of player as the fifth starter.” This highlights why the Lakers see Wiggins as a key potential piece, and why moving him could make sense for their ideal lineup, whereas the Heat may not see similar upside in returning Hachimura/Knecht.

The Lakers, meanwhile, have demonstrated they are willing to move Dalton Knecht in trades. They previously had a midseason trade lined up for Mark Williams that ultimately fell through, showing a willingness to shift prospects or lower-cost players when the right deal comes along. This history highlights that Knecht is movable and that Los Angeles is serious about pursuing a package to acquire Wiggins, though the Heat remain firm on their valuation.