LeBron James and Pat Riley share a long and complicated history that began when the “King” played under Riley with the Miami Heat. Although their partnership ended more than a decade ago, lingering tensions may now be affecting James’ current team-the Los Angeles Lakers-as they attempt to acquire veteran forward Andrew Wiggins.
James and Riley spent four seasons together in Miami, winning back-to-back NBA titles in 2012 and 2013. However, their relationship soured after the 2014 season, when the Heat lost the NBA Finals to the San Antonio Spurs and James abruptly returned to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Reports at the time suggested Riley was blindsided by James’ decision, having expected him to stay and pursue a third championship together. Since then, LeBron has joined the Lakers, while Riley remains president of the Heat-and that’s where the tension resurfaces.
Riley reportedly blocking any deal with the Lakers
Wiggins, the first overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, is considered one of the most valuable veterans on the market. For the Lakers, he would provide crucial depth at forward and serve as a defensive asset off the bench.
However, an anonymous NBA executive dismissed the possibility of a trade between the two teams. “I would be stunned if Pat [Riley] did this trade,” the source told Lakers Daily. “Do you really think Pat wants to help LeBron? He’s still mad about LeBron leaving Miami. I don’t see that happening.”
Reports indicate that the Lakers and Heat have engaged in preliminary talks regarding Wiggins. Miami is reportedly demanding significant compensation, while Los Angeles is willing to offer players like Rui Hachimura, Dalton Knecht, or future draft picks. Wiggins has two years remaining on his current contract.
Wiggins’ contract situation
The 11-year veteran signed a four-year, $109 million deal with the Golden State Warriors ahead of the 2023-2024 season. After one season, he was traded to the Heat, where he completed the second year of his contract. The deal includes a player option for the 2026-2027 season.
If Riley refuses to trade Wiggins to Los Angeles due to his lingering grudge against James, Miami may either wait for a more favorable offer or move Wiggins before he can exercise his player option. It’s a complex situation-one rooted in a feud that began when Wiggins was just entering the league.
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