NBA trade rumors: Andrew Wiggins to Lakers deal unlikely due to strained Pat Riley and LeBron James relationship, says NBA exec

The Los Angeles Lakers are looking to maximize their championship window with stars Luka Doncic and LeBron James by trying to trade for former NBA champion Andrew Wiggins, however, the Miami Heat are reportedly not budging.

Wiggins could help the Lakers, who had the 15th-lowest defensive rating last season with 114.7, tremendously with his two-way capability, but talks have not advanced due to the Heat reportedly wanting a first-round pick or Dalton Knecht for the former Warriors forward.

According to an NBA executive, the high price for the Canadian is also a tactic from Heat President Pat Riley to avoid helping his former player, James, and his quest for a last ring.

“I would be stunned if Pat did this trade,” the NBA executive told Lakers Daily. “You really think Pat wants to help LeBron? He’s still mad about LeBron leaving Miami. I don’t see it happening.”

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Andrew Wiggins looking comfortable at the Heat practice facility

Getting some run in with Bam & Ware in preparation of his first full season in Miami 🔥 pic.twitter.com/u2qwQ4GTjX

— Hot Hot Hoops (@hothothoops) September 22, 2025

James and Riley’s strained relationship stems from the former’s exit in Miami in 2015 that reportedly made the former Lakers head coach “very angry.” Riley would later call the superstar’s exit the “right thing.”

NBA insider Brett Siegel also reported that the Heat are not looking to trade for Wiggins and expects him to be a pivotal piece in their rotation for the future. 

“At this time, Miami holds no desire to trade Wiggins before the 2025-26 season, and they are operating under the mindset of evaluating his production and fit before the trade deadline,” Siegel said.

Wiggins was traded to Miami in a blockbuster trade at the trade deadline last year involving Jimmy Butler. He then went on to average 19 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists for Miami.

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