NBA Trade Rumors: Miami Heat Expected to Hit Pause on Andrew Wiggins Talks Ahead of 2025-26 Season; Los Angeles Lakers Out?

Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins is expected to begin the 2025-26 NBA season with the team, quelling trade rumors that had previously linked him to potential moves elsewhere. According to Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald, the Heat are opting to hold onto Wiggins for now, wanting “to see what this mix will look like” before considering any trade scenarios.Barry Jackson, also of the Miami Herald, echoed the sentiment, noting that “nothing” presented to the Miami Heat for Wiggins has been “enticing,” and that the front office’s “plan is to keep him.”This stance follows a busy trade deadline in February, where Wiggins was part of a blockbuster five-team deal that notably sent Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors. Since arriving in Miami, the 30-year-old has had a brief but impactful stint, making a solid case for why the team might want to keep him around.

Andrew Wiggins’ Numbers Show Promise in South Beach

Despite playing in just 17 games after the trade, Andrew Wiggins demonstrated his value on both ends of the floor. His performance hinted at a possible resurgence with the Heat:

Andrew Wiggins’ Stats with Miami (Post-Deadline)

These numbers reflect Wiggins’ ability to contribute as a reliable scorer and defender, fitting into Miami’s system with efficiency and purpose.

Why the Los Angeles Lakers Interest Fizzles Out

Earlier in the offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers reportedly engaged in trade discussions involving Wiggins. While no formal deal materialized, the talks highlighted the former All-Star’s continued value around the league.

However, with the Heat now seemingly committed to seeing what Wiggins can offer over a longer stretch, any potential move to the Lakers—or any other team—appears to be on hold for now.

Risk vs. Reward for the Miami Heat

While the Miami Heat’s decision to keep Andrew Wiggins adds depth and experience to their rotation, there is a strategic risk involved. If Wiggins starts the 2025-26 season slowly, his trade value could decline significantly. The team may find it harder to move him later in the year if his production dips or if injuries resurface.That said, his recent output offers hope that he can be a key piece in Miami’s pursuit of a deep playoff run. His versatility on both ends makes him an asset worth keeping—at least for now.Also read: NBA Rumors: LeBron James Trade Speculation Intensifies, But Rich Paul Sets the Record StraightFor now, Andrew Wiggins remains a Miami Heat player, and all signs suggest he will be in uniform when the season tips off. As Anthony Chiang reported, the Heat want to give this group a fair look before making any drastic changes. Whether Wiggins stays the full season or becomes part of a future trade package, his time in Miami could prove crucial—for both his career trajectory and the Heat’s playoff hopes.