LeBron James and Alex Caruso in Los Angeles Lakers (Image via Nathaniel S. Butler/ Getty Images) The Los Angeles Lakers are weighing their options this offseason, and according to a popular NBA analyst, one potential move involves swapping a key forward for a proven NBA champion.
Los Angeles Lakers Exploring Trade for Andrew Wiggins
The Los Angeles Lakers have two clear paths in free agency: pursuing a dominant center or trading for an experienced wing player to bolster their championship aspirations. According to recent reports, the franchise may lean toward the latter by targeting Miami Heat star Andrew Wiggins. Lake Show Life’s Svyatoslav Rovenchuk suggests the Lakers could package forward Rui Hachimura in a deal to acquire Wiggins from the Miami Heat. “The fit of Rui Hachimura alongside (Luka) Doncic and (LeBron) James has quickly come under scrutiny after a premature first-round exit to the Minnesota Timberwolves,” Rovenchuk wrote. “This has led many to believe the Lakers are better off trading the starting forward.” (H/t: Sporting News)
Why Andrew Andrew Wiggins Makes Sense for the Los Angeles Lakers
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Charlotte Hornets: Team news, expected lineups and what to watch for in this NBA clash on February 19 (Image via Getty)
Andrew Wiggins could provide the Los Angeles Lakers with much-needed perimeter scoring and defensive versatility. Here’s why this trade could work: – Salary Match: Hachimura ($17 million) plus another expiring contract could match Wiggins’ $28.2 million salary for 2025-26. – Proven Playoff Performer: Wiggins was instrumental in Golden State’s 2022 title run, averaging 17.2 points and 4.5 rebounds per game. – Immediate Upgrade: While Hachimura is solid, Wiggins offers better two-way impact and championship experience.
Wiggins’ Career Resurgence
Once considered an underachieving talent in Minnesota, Wiggins revitalized his career with the Golden State Warriors. His improved motor and efficiency made him a key piece in Golden State’s success. However, after a slow start in 2024-25, the Warriors traded him to Miami in the Jimmy Butler deal.
Key Career Highlights:
Season Team PPG RPG Notable Achievement 2021-22 Warriors 17.2 4.5 NBA Champion 2024-25 Heat 16.8 4.1 Playoff contributor
How Wiggins Fits With LeBron and Doncic
Wiggins’ skill set complements the Lakers’ star duo: – Reliable three-point shooting for better floor spacing. – Strong perimeter defense to ease the load on LeBron James. – Playoff-tested mentality, crucial for deep postseason runs. With the Heat struggling, Wiggins may welcome a move to a contender like the Lakers. While Hachimura has been a steady presence, Wiggins represents a clear upgrade for a Los Angeles Lakers team in win-now mode. If Los Angeles can structure the right deal, adding the former Warriors champion could be the move that pushes them back into title contention.