Lakers vs Bulls (Image via Getty) The Los Angeles Lakers may not be done reshaping their roster ahead of the 2025–26 NBA season. While they’ve already added some key names in free agency, the front office is reportedly eyeing a major trade that could bring in a former All-Star and NBA champion to fortify the team’s defensive wing. According to Ryan Shea of Sports Illustrated, the Lakers are being predicted to make a move for Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins.
Los Angeles Lakers’ Plan: Upgrade the Wing With a Proven Veteran
Despite a solid offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers still lack consistent two-way production on the wing. Andrew Wiggins, a 1-time All-Star and NBA champion, is being viewed as a strong candidate to fill that void. Known for his defensive prowess and ability to thrive without high-usage offensive duties, Wiggins checks multiple boxes for a team hoping to return to title contention.Wiggins has already proven he can complement superstars – most notably during the Warriors’ 2022 title run – and would likely slot in well alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Notably, Wiggins has also shown flashes of brilliance guarding Luka Doncic in previous postseason matchups, adding more intrigue to the potential pairing.
Proposed 3-Team Trade Deal
Ryan Shea’s trade scenario involves a three-team structure, with Miami also playing a part:
Andrew Wiggins (Image via Getty)
TeamReceivesLakers Andrew WigginsHeat Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, 2 future first-round picks
Warriors Cap flexibility and future options (implied in the trade structure)
Shea writes, “Wiggins is a former Rookie of the Year, All-Star, and NBA champion. He would provide much-needed veteran experience for a Lakers team that is looking to contend for a title in the 2025-2026 NBA season. LA also trades Hachimura a year before he potentially walks in free agency ahead of the 2026-2027 season.”This trade not only adds a reliable defender to LA’s core but also helps them maximize the value of Rui Hachimura before he hits unrestricted free agency.
Why Wiggins Fits the Los Angeles Lakers’ Needs
Bringing in Andrew Wiggins would allow the Lakers to address several critical concerns: • Perimeter defense: Wiggins can take on top scoring assignments every night, easing the load on aging stars. • Tertiary scoring option: He doesn’t need the ball to be effective, making him a seamless fit with high-usage stars like LeBron and AD. • Veteran presence: As a player who’s been deep in the playoffs, Wiggins brings experience and composure to a locker room that expects to compete for a title.
Potential Projected Lineup with Wiggins:
PositionPlayerPGD’Angelo Russell SG Austin Reaves SF Andrew Wiggins PF LeBron James C Anthony Davis
Should the Los Angeles Lakers Pull the Trigger?
While giving up two future first-round picks is a hefty price, the Los Angeles Lakers are clearly in win-now mode. With LeBron James nearing the twilight of his career, the window for championship contention remains small. Wiggins provides a ready-made solution for their wing issues without disrupting the offensive flow.Moreover, with Gabe Vincent and Rui Hachimura not seen as untouchables, this trade could be an efficient way to upgrade without gutting the roster.Andrew Wiggins may not be a superstar, but he’s the type of role player that championship teams rely on. His ability to guard elite scorers and contribute offensively when needed makes him a highly valuable piece for any contender. If the Lakers are serious about making another deep playoff push, making a move for Wiggins might just be the missing link.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Blockbuster Proposal Sends $229 Million Atlanta Hawks Guard to Phoenix Suns to Replace Kevin DurantThe rumor mill continues to swirl, but if this deal materializes, it could be a major step toward securing banner No. 18 in Los Angeles.