Lakers Intensify Trade Talks for Andrew Wiggins
The Los angeles Lakers are reportedly renewing their pursuit of Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins,signaling a potential blockbuster trade to bolster their championship aspirations. Discussions have picked up recently, according to reports, with the Lakers viewing Wiggins as a key piece to elevate their status within the Western Conference’s elite.
This renewed interest comes as the Lakers seek to optimize their roster around LeBron James, Dončić, Austin Reaves, Marcus Smart, and Rui Hachimura. Experts believe acquiring a two-way wing like Wiggins, capable of defending multiple positions, would significantly alleviate pressure on James and other key players. The potential trade has sparked optimism that the Lakers could contend for an NBA title, moving them into the top tier of championship contenders.
According to Jovan Buha of The Athletic, the Lakers could “vault themselves up to the Tier 1 [of NBA title teams] and have a legit chance to win a championship” with the right acquisition. Buha specifically highlighted Wiggins as an “ideal complement” to Smart and Hachimura, noting his ability to guard both backcourt players and wings. “If the Lakers were to get Andrew wiggins, or a player of that ilk…that’s the ideal complement,” Buha said on his September 9 podcast.
The appeal of adding Wiggins extends to both the Lakers’ starting lineup and bench. Analyst Irwin echoed Buha’s assessment, suggesting that retaining Hachimura alongside Wiggins would strengthen the team’s depth and versatility. The Lakers are hoping these renewed talks will translate into a deal that significantly improves their chances of competing for a championship this season.