On September 14th Beijing time, reporter Evan Sidery revealed that the Lakers and Heat have resumed trade negotiations about Wiggins before training camp starts. The Lakers are very willing to trade former first-round pick Knect along with certain expiring contracts. The Heat, however, are seeking a future first-round pick as part of the deal.

The Lakers have already completed their most crucial task—signing a long-term contract extension with superstar Luka Doncic. The team's current aim is to provide more strong support for this 26-year-old prodigy, and acquiring a wing player with scoring ability might be the perfect addition.

Wiggins can relieve some defensive pressure off Doncic while also taking on more scoring responsibilities—last season, he averaged 18 points over 60 games. Although NBA all-time scoring leader LeBron James shows no signs of decline yet, his career won’t last forever. While the championship window centered on Doncic has opened, having one of basketball’s greatest players ever on the roster means this "dual championship window" is even more limited.

The Heat were swept in the first round of last season’s playoffs and are currently seeking a new direction for the team. Last year, the trade drama surrounding Butler was highly publicized; now, obtaining a future first-round pick along with a first-round caliber player like Knect might finally close that chapter for good.

The 24-year-old Knect (whom the Lakers tried to trade last season but the deal fell through) averaged 19.2 minutes, 9.1 points, and 2.8 rebounds per game last season, shooting 46.1% from the field and 37.6% from three-point range. Wiggins, in 17 games wearing the Heat jersey, performed impressively, averaging 19 points, 4.2 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1 block per game, with a shooting percentage of 45.8% and three-point accuracy of 36%.

U.S. media point out that the Lakers currently face the question: is it worth giving up Knect and his future potential to acquire a 30-year-old wing to strengthen the existing roster? What do you think—should the Lakers pursue Wiggins? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.