In the rather crazy landscape of NBA offseason trades so far, the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat are reportedly circling each other, with two interesting swap scenarios quietly gathering momentum. Each offers a compelling win-win, but the real intrigue lies in the details of what we propose.
In a bold flip, one scenario would send a polished wing with a championship pedigree to L.A., a player who’s both a defensive asset and a capable scorer, in exchange for a pair of promising role players and a future draft pick.
A second proposal sees the Lakers moving a burgeoning two-way guard to Miami, hoping to deepen their guard rotation, while reclaiming another rising talent along with a first-rounder.
At the heart of both ideas? Andrew Wiggins, whose blend of size, defense, and streaky scoring continues to fuel trade whispers. And not far behind: Jaime Jaquez Jr., the Heat rookie standout whose high-motor, two-way feel has made him an intriguing piece for contending teams.
Over the next few paragraphs, we’ll break down how each package aligns with L.A.’s championship timeline around LeBron James and Luka Doncic and Miami’s youth-driven rebuild, and whether both teams could walk away feeling like winners.
Lakers Add Andrew Wiggins To Fortify Their Perimeter Defense
Proposed Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Andrew Wiggins
Miami Heat Receive: Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, 2032 second-round pick (LAL)
Across the 2024-25 season, Andrew Wiggins posted a solid 18.0 PPG, 4.5 RPG, and 2.6 APG across 30.7 minutes per game, shooting 44.8% from the field and 37.4% from three. But it’s his stalwart defense that makes him invaluable to Los Angeles. Wiggins ranked highly in defensive rating among his teammates and opponents in Golden State, routinely tasked with guarding the opposition’s top wing scorer, and logging 1.0 steals and 0.8 blocks per game.
In a championship-caliber Lakers setup, Wiggins would fill the critical 3-and-D wing niche next to their superstar duo, plugging into rotations seamlessly. His 56.6% true shooting paints a picture of efficiency, while his length and versatility match up well with modern positionless NBA offenses. The Lakers’ appeal is obvious: a proven two-way starter with playoff experience, unmatched size (6’7″, 197 lbs), and a championship ring on his resume.
Heading into next season, the defense-first Lakers need a reliable perimeter stopper; Wiggins checks that box. The Heat would bolster depth and future upside by receiving two rotation players, Rui Hachimura (13.1 PPG, 5.0 RPG) and Jarred Vanderbilt (4.1 PPG, 5.1 RPG), plus a 2032 second-round pick. For L.A., this trade cements their perimeter defense without sacrificing cap space or top-tier assets.
A Clever Trade To Improve Their Bench By Involving Dalton Knecht
Proposed Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Jaime Jacquez Jr.
Miami Heat Receive: Dalton Knecht, 2031 first-round pick (LAL)
At just 24, Jaime Jaquez Jr. has already proven his two-way prowess for Miami, averaging 8.6 PPG, 4.4 RPG, and 2.5 APG in 20.7 minutes per game, while shooting a reliable 46.1% from the field. He’s shown a knack for timely scoring, highlighted by a 41-point, 10-rebound, 7-assist explosion in April, and delivers consistent hustle and energy off the bench.
Jaquez’s versatility, guarding wings, pressing the pace, and even playmaking fit perfectly with the Lakers’ identity. His 6’6″, 225 lb frame and developing three-point shot (31.1%) add value as a multi-positional rotation piece. For L.A., this trade brings back a young, ascending guard who can step into critical bench minutes, with room to grow and contribute immediately.
Miami, in turn, gains guard Dalton Knecht (9.1 PPG, 2.8 RPG), who’d shore up their backcourt depth, and a 2031 first-round pick from Los Angeles. It’s a smart move for the Heat: they diversify their guard rotation now and add future draft capital for rebuilding or flipping.
A 2-Trade Deal That Works Out For Both Teams
Put together, these trades represent a comprehensive two-for-one swap: Los Angeles shores up starters with Andrew Wiggins and beefs up the second unit with Jaquez Jr., while Miami dives deeper into youth and potential with Knecht, Hachimura, Vanderbilt, and multiple picks on the table. Each team walks away with clearly defined roles filled, aligned with their objectives: the Lakers gear up for a deep playoff run, whereas the Heat stay future-flexible.
Statistically and stylistically, it’s a clean fit: Wiggins brings veteran defense, Jaquez Jr. injects energy and multi-positional value, and Miami doesn’t just lose players, they gain draft flexibility and foundational pieces. And with Wiggins and Jaquez Jr. teased as the marquee returns, the buzz is all about positioning: can L.A. maximize perimeter reliability, and will Miami develop their next wave of contributors?
Ultimately, this dual-package trade offers clarity and balance, two teams retooling in ways that feel both coherent and competitive.
