The Los Angeles Lakers entered this offseason looking for help on the wing. Andrew Wiggins quickly became one of their top trade targets, viewed as a player who could defend multiple positions while adding scoring next to LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
From the beginning, though, the Miami Heat weren’t eager to listen. Team officials wanted to see how their roster would perform early in the year before moving any major pieces. That patience became even more important after a major development just before the season.
Miami guard Tyler Herro had ankle surgery on Friday and is expected to miss the first eight weeks of the regular season. Herro, who averaged 23.9 points, 5.5 assists, and 5.2 rebounds last year, was coming off his first All-Star selection. He had also been in talks about a possible extension, telling reporters in May, “If it doesn’t get done in October, then we can get it done next summer. It will just be a little bit higher of a price” per NBC Sports.
Herro’s Injury Strengthens Miami’s Grip on Wiggins
Herro’s absence forces Miami to rely even more on Wiggins, who arrived last season and averaged 19 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists. His defense against top wings also gives the Heat stability while Herro recovers. Alex Toledo of Sports Illustrated noted, “This will put more of a burden on Bam Adebayo and small forward Andrew Wiggins, while providing opportunities for some young players, notably Pelle Larsson and perhaps rookie Kasparas Jakucionis.”
For the Lakers, this creates a major roadblock. Reports suggest Miami’s asking price for Wiggins included Rui Hachimura, a future first-round pick, and role players like Gabe Vincent and Dalton Knecht. Los Angeles has been reluctant to pay that cost, and with Pat Riley holding firm, the chances of a deal happening soon have faded.
What Comes Next for Both Teams
The Heat also added Norman Powell this summer to help with scoring. In the meantime, Bam Adebayo will carry a larger load, while young players fight for early minutes. Wiggins’ $30 million player option for 2026-27 means Miami has the flexibility to keep him long term or reassess later.
The Lakers, meanwhile, may need to wait until the trade deadline to revisit talks or turn their focus elsewhere. Their limited draft capital makes them cautious, but the front office knows the roster needs more two-way talent if they want to compete in the Western Conference.
Herro himself set the tone for Miami’s mindset. From his hospital bed, he posted on social media: “Imma tear the league back down once I get off this weak a- bed.”That message, along with Riley’s decision to protect Wiggins, shows the Heat plan to fight through the early season shorthanded-leaving Los Angeles on the outside of the deal they wanted most.
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