The Los Angeles Lakers have had a busy offseason, but the moves may not be complete. In the ultra-competitive Western Conference, the purple and gold will look to continue bolstering their squad, most likely until the start of the regular season, with the February 6th trade deadline marked on their calendar. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Lakers are considering a two-way wing. Stein specifically linked them to Andrew Wiggins, a former Golden State Warriors all-star and the first overall choice.
Stein praised Wiggins and acknowledged superstar Luka Doncic’s contract extension for making such a move possible.
“Andrew Wiggins, 30, will make $28.2 million this season and has a $30.2 million player option for 2026-27.” Before Dončić’s long-term future was secured, I wouldn’t have considered him a potential purple-and-gold target. However, things have changed. So I believe the Lakers would be interested if the Heat decides to prioritize financial flexibility and lower payroll in the coming weeks or months.” Wiggins was traded to the Miami Heat as part of the blockbuster Jimmy Butler deal and improved in points, steals, assists, and field goal percentage.
Wiggins averaged 19 points, 3.3 assists, 4.2 rebounds, 1.2 steals, and one block a game in 17 games with Miami last season, shooting 45.8 percent. His effective field goal percentage, which accounts for additional points from beyond the arc, was 53 percent, up since his trade. The Lakers have stated that they want to conserve their future salary budget for the tremendous potential of the 2027 free agent class, which includes Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo, but Stein also mentioned taking on Wiggins’ hefty contract.
“The Lakers’ initial reluctance to entertain trades for contracts that extend beyond the 2025-26 season has thawed slightly. I don’t think that implies they’ll make a deal for anyone between now and the Feb. 5 trade deadline, but league sources say Los Angeles is interested in adding a two-way swingman who can help them reach their potential. If a trade opportunity arose for LA, bringing in the 30-year-old would provide an effective scoring threat on the wing, but it all depends on what Miami wants in exchange and whether the Lakers will make the deal.
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