The Los Angeles Lakers’ hopes of acquiring Andrew Wiggins appear to be slipping away, according to NBA insider Jovan Buha, signaling a shift in the team’s strategy as it prepares for a pivotal 2025–26 season. While the franchise has made bold offseason moves, including the acquisition of Deandre Ayton and the pairing of superstars LeBron James and Luka Doncic, Wiggins is no longer seen as a realistic addition.

“I don’t know if Wiggins at this point is looking realistic for the Lakers,” Buha stated, pouring cold water on the long-standing speculation linking the two-time NBA champion to Los Angeles. Once seen as a seamless fit thanks to his two-way prowess and championship pedigree, Wiggins has instead thrived in his new home with the Miami Heat after a move from the Golden State Warriors.

Now a focal point in Miami’s system, the former No. 1 overall pick is averaging 19 points per game with efficient shooting, reinforcing his value as a vital cog rather than a trade candidate. His resurgence with the Heat has likely made any deal prohibitively expensive or strategically misaligned for Los Angeles.

Still, the Lakers have not stood idle. Their offseason has been aggressive, with a clear mission to build a well-rounded team around the aging LeBron and the ascending Doncic. Deandre Ayton brings playoff experience and size to the paint, while Jake LaRavia adds a reliable perimeter threat. The re-signing of Jaxson Hayes adds further depth to the frontcourt, signaling the Lakers’ intent to fortify every area of the roster.

Wiggins’ absence, while disappointing to some fans, is not a devastating blow. The Lakers appear to be focusing their energy on building a team that maximizes Doncic’s playmaking brilliance and eases the burden on LeBron, who continues to chase a fifth NBA title as he nears the twilight of his legendary career.

The potential addition of Wiggins would have brought further versatility, defense, and playoff seasoning, but the Lakers’ recalibrated strategy suggests confidence in their current mix. Their summer moves have built a roster with the balance and depth required to make a serious postseason run.

As the season draws closer, Lakers fans may continue to wonder what could have been with Wiggins. But even without him, the franchise has signaled that it remains firmly in win-now mode, ready to contend in an increasingly competitive Western Conference.