The Los Angeles Lakers have had a busy offseason, but their biggest win didn’t come through free agency or trades—it came by securing Luka Dončić’s future. The 25-year-old Slovenian superstar signed a three-year, $165 million contract extension that will keep him in purple and gold through at least the 2027-28 season, with a player option for 2028-29.
By locking up Dončić before his EuroBasket 2025 campaign, the Lakers gained clarity and stability heading into the next phase of their roster construction. With their franchise cornerstone in place, the front office can now shift focus to building a stronger title contender around him without worrying about looming contract negotiations.
Among the names being floated, Miami’s Andrew Wiggins has surfaced as a potential trade target. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Lakers are actively seeking a two-way wing and no longer view longer-term salary commitments as a deterrent following Dončić’s extension.
Wiggins, who holds a $30.2 million player option for next season, fits the mold. He was instrumental in Golden State’s 2022 championship run and could thrive in a more defined role in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Miami is reportedly weighing financial flexibility following the departure of Jimmy Butler, and Wiggins’ contract could be a logical piece to move.
For the Lakers, a trade could be built around expiring deals. A package involving Maxi Kleber and former Heat guard Gabe Vincent—both on contracts worth around $11 million—plus rookie Dalton Knecht could appeal to Miami. This would provide the Heat with $22.5 million in salary relief next summer, while also adding a promising young wing in Knecht.
If Miami looks for more than just salary relief, the conversation could turn toward players like Rui Hachimura, who is on an $18 million expiring deal. Austin Reaves is viewed as untouchable by the Lakers, but Hachimura might be moved if L.A. believes Wiggins offers a defensive and offensive upgrade. A package involving Hachimura and either Vincent or Kleber would meet salary-matching requirements while giving Miami both cap relief and some short-term competitiveness.
The Lakers’ previous caution with long-term contracts and draft picks may now take a backseat. With Dončić in place, the front office can afford to take calculated risks, knowing their floor remains high. As quality veterans hit the trade market, Wiggins could be a logical first step in reshaping a team that suddenly has both urgency and stability on its side.
