The clock has started ticking on the Lakers’ offseason, and even before it’s in full swing, the rumors are heating up. Not to forget, the Lakers mean business, and as usual, Rob Pelinka might be cooking something big behind the scenes. After another disappointing early playoff exit, the front office is moving quickly, desperate to reshape the roster. Their priority? Upgrading the wing rotation while staying firmly in win-now mode. And in those discussions, one name in those rumors keeps rising to the surface. Andrew Wiggins.
Even though there are mixed feelings, but Wiggins, coming off a short stint with the Heat after being included in the Jimmy Butler trade, has piqued the Lakers’ interest. He is a versatile wing, and still just 30 with a championship ring and playoff chops. And Rui Hachimura appears to be the cost. Rui, who signed a 3-year $51M deal last summer, became a crucial two-way contributor. JJ Redick called him a “vital cog” and praised his playoff performances. Still, the Lakers view Wiggins as a potential starter and playoff closer, something Rui has not fully become.
This trade might be more than just Wiggins, though. With the Lakers still lacking a true center, Utah’s Walker Kessler has emerged as a rumored target. According @Fullcourtpass, L.A. is pushing for a deal involving Jarred Vanderbilt to unlock the full MLE. Whether it is Wiggins or Kessler, this summer is about consolidation. If the Lakers want to go from playoff hopefuls to title threats, moves like these aren’t optional, but necessary. The only question left is which path do they take?
The Lakers will try and add Vanderbilt in the deal to unlock the full MLE https://t.co/vQFaMue1Y7
— Playoff LAL (@PlayoffLAL) June 25, 2025
This is a developing story…
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