The Los Angeles Lakers might finally be signaling a change in how they approach roster building. For years, the front office has resisted taking on long-term contracts, preferring short-term flexibility over big commitments. But according to Jovan Buha of Buha’s Block, that stance may be softening.
Buha reports the Lakers are now open to deals involving contracts that extend beyond next season. On its face, that might not sound seismic. But for a team that has avoided such moves for the past three offseasons — while making zero trades in that span — it’s a notable shift.
With LeBron James nearing 41 and Luka Dončić in the heart of his prime, the Lakers can no longer afford patience. The message is clear: the time to push in is now.
Players on the Block
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The Lakers are reportedly exploring packages centered around Rui Hachimura, rookie Dalton Knecht, and veteran Maxi Kleber. The goal, Buha explained, is to bring back a true needle-mover — whether that’s a two-way starter or a high-level bench piece capable of impacting playoff games.
Of course, those kinds of players rarely come cheap. More often than not, a first-round pick is part of the equation. For the first time in a while, the Lakers appear willing to pay that price.
The Andrew Wiggins Factor
One name tied to Los Angeles has been Andrew Wiggins, now with the Miami Heat. Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reported that the Lakers held “extensive” trade talks with Miami earlier this offseason. However, the Heat’s front office has been unwilling to engage seriously before the season begins.
“At this time, Miami holds no desire to trade Wiggins before the 2025-26 season, and they are operating under the mindset of evaluating his production and fit before the trade deadline,” Siegel noted, adding that Miami’s asking price has been higher than the Lakers are comfortable paying.
That hasn’t stopped general manager Rob Pelinka from trying to reignite conversations with Pat Riley, but for now, progress remains stalled.
What Comes Next
The Lakers’ offseason additions of Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and Jake LaRavia have added depth, but holes remain — especially at the wing. LeBron’s age and Hachimura’s natural fit at power forward leave the roster vulnerable against longer, athletic wing scorers.
That’s where a player like Wiggins, or another versatile defender, could tilt the balance. But if Miami doesn’t budge, the Lakers will need to look elsewhere.
For the first time in years, though, Los Angeles seems willing to do what it takes. And that alone is a major adjustment.