Lakers Receive Unfortunate News on Trading For Former No. 1 Overall Pick

The Los Angeles Lakers have hit a snag in their pursuit of Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins, a former No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft. 

According to Lakers insider Jovan Buha, the trade appears increasingly unrealistic due to the Heat's steep asking price. 

Buha earlier reported that the Heat are seeking a package consisting of Dalton Knecht, Rui Hachimura, and a first-round draft pick, a demand that seems excessive given Wiggins' current value.

Despite the Lakers' willingness to include Knecht and a future first-round pick in a previous deal for Mark Williams, Rob Pelinka and the Lakers' front office may be reluctant to part with such valuable assets for a player who they aren't that high on.

With LeBron James turning 41 and entering his final contract year, the Lakers are also focused on building around Luka Doncic for the future and avoiding the NBA's rigid salary cap constraints.

Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins (22).

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Wiggins, who achieved an NBA championship and All-Star appearance in 2022 during his tenure with the Golden State Warriors, could theoretically complement James and Doncic given both superstars' tremendous ability to space the floor and make the right reads. 

After losing 3-and-D specialist Dorian Finney-Smith this offseason, the Lakers have a massive void to fill in terms of perimeter defense, an area where Wiggins proceeds to excel at.

However, the Heat's recent acquisition of Norman Powell might make Wiggins more expendable, potentially lowering the price. 

Still, all indications suggest Wiggins is unlikely to join the Lakers this offseason, leaving the team to explore other options to bolster their wing position.