Lakers Get Two Heat Players In Blockbuster Trade Idea That Should Finally Happen

Both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat have had a fruitful offseason thus far. With key roster moves being made by both teams, they have successfully increased their chances of being competitive in the upcoming season.

The Heat are poised to be a top-6 team in the Eastern Conference. Meanwhile, the Lakers, while "better", are still only considered a playoff team.

Given Luka Doncic's aspirations to make a run at winning it all, the Purple and Gold are yet to be viewed as a true contender in the West. Although there are some moves they can make, the Lakers have seemed tentative.

In this regard, we proposed a trade that would aid the Lakers in cementing their status as title contenders. By finally acquiring Andrew Wiggins in a trade with the Miami Heat, the Purple and Gold would certainly be viewed differently.

Let's take a closer look at the trade package.

Proposed Trade Details

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Jaime Jaquez Jr.

Miami Heat Receive: Rui Hachimura, Dalton Knecht, Maxi Kleber, 2031 first-round pick 

This trade would have a significant impact on both teams involved. Let's examine how it affects them in greater detail.

Lakers Emerge As Title Contenders

This trade is hugely beneficial for the Los Angeles Lakers. The additions of Andrew Wiggins, along with Jaime Jaquez Jr., have major implications for their overall rotation.

Wiggins has been viewed as the ideal fit for the Purple and Gold. Given his two-way potential, his reliable shooting, and his overall athleticism, the 30-year-old would instantly be a key rotation player on the team.

The Heat forward is capable of contributing in a variety of ways. His versatility as an offensive player gives him the freedom to operate in several different situations. From a perimeter threat to a slasher, Wiggins is fundamentally sound enough to create opportunities for himself.

Although the former All-Star saw a drop-off in performance after his title run with the Golden State Warriors, he showcased his ability to be an offensive threat during his short stint with the Heat last season. In 17 games with Miami, he put up an average of 19.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, while shooting 45.8% from the field and 36.0% from three-point range.

When considering his skill set, along with his championship experience, the 30-year-old would be the ideal piece in the Lakers' puzzle.

The acquisition of Jaquez Jr. is not to be overlooked either. The former first-round pick has showcased a lot of potential to be a key rotational piece. Given the kind of faith Miami has shown in him, the Lakers could certainly benefit from adding him to their lineup.

Jaquez Jr. is also a versatile offensive player. Although his perimeter shooting ability isn't the best, he has displayed an ability to contribute in different ways.

The 24-year-old is a high-IQ basketball player. While he has shown an inclination to operate in the midrange, with a preference for the fadeaway, he can be considered a three-level scorer. With solid footwork and a clean touch around the rim, he could safely be relied upon to bolster the team's bench scoring.

Last season, the forward experienced a bit of a sophomore slump, as he ended the 2024-25 season with an average of 8.6 points and 4.4 rebounds, on shooting splits of 46.1% from the field and 31.1% from three-point range. With more playing time, he has the scope to record an uptick in production.

These additions effectively help the Lakers expand upon their wing depth, giving the roster a lot more versatility and length. With insurance for several key players in place, the Purple and Gold could establish themselves as contenders.

The Heat Add Necessary Roster Depth

The Miami Heat's offseason activities have transformed the roster into a young team with the potential to be a dark horse in the East. With the core of Tyler Herro, Bam Adebayo, and Norman Powell, the Heat could stun a lot of teams in the conference. 

But the Heat still have some glaring depth issues on their roster, particularly in the frontcourt.

When considering the lack of size on their roster, it is abundantly clear that the team needs reinforcements. In this regard, the trade with the Lakers could help them address these issues.

Rui Hachimura's arrival will be viewed very favorably. When considering the forward's consistent performance with the Purple and Gold last season, the 27-year-old would thrive in a situation like Miami's.

Hachimura is a proven 3-and-D wing. His consistency from three-point range is only complemented by his flexibility as a defender, as he is capable of utilizing his strength to guard bigger players.

On the Heat, Hachimura would be an ideal replacement for Wiggins, especially as a tertiary option on offense. When considering his averages of 13.1 points and 5.0 rebounds on shooting splits of 50.9% from the field and 41.3% from three-point range, Miami could benefit from inserting him into the starting rotation.

The other key additions for the Heat in this trade package would be Dalton Knecht and Maxi Kleber. Knecht has a lot of upside as a young scorer. Although his defensive potential is limited, Miami would be the ideal team to groom him into a solid two-way player.

With the departure of Duncan Robinson in the offseason, the Heat could utilize Knecht to fill in as the sharpshooter off the bench. With averages of 9.1 points on 37.6% shooting from three-point range last season, the 24-year-old could easily embrace a bigger role with the Heat.

Kleber's addition is vital in shoring up the team's big man rotation. When considering the limitations of Miami's center depth, the 31-year-old could provide solid minutes, given his floor-spacing ability and defensive upside.

Although his production has been low, with an average of only 3.0 points and 2.8 rebounds last season, Kleber remains a solid role player. He could be essential in supporting the minutes played by Adebayo and Ware.

Apart from these vital roster reinforcements, the Heat will also enjoy acquiring the Lakers' 2031 first-round pick in this package. Considering their need to expand upon their draft assets, this could be considered a valuable addition.

The Lakers Should Trade For Wiggins

The Lakers have been linked with Wiggins for a large portion of the offseason. Unfortunately, the door seems to be shut on any further negotiation at the moment. 

This is primarily because Miami's asking price for Wiggins has been viewed as too much. While this is a valid concern for the Lakers, they may stand to gain a lot more by pulling the trigger on this trade.

Acquiring Wiggins gives the team a lot of flexibility, especially with managing LeBron James' minutes. Given his ability to support the offensive charge, the Lakers could reduce the workload on James by giving the younger forward more burn. 

The Purple and Gold are primed to be a contender. Their superstar has shown every intention of competing for the championship next season. Ultimately, the Lakers' front office will need to address its priorities before making a decision.