NBA – Can the Lakers leverage the Kevin Durant trade to land a star?

NBA (DR)

Par Mathieu Seguin | Rédacteur sport

What if a single name could tip the balance of a major trade? Discussions around Kevin Durant are heating up, and some franchises are sensing an opportunity—like the Lakers. At least, that’s what many fans hope for.

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Many online believe the Lakers should try to involve Andrew Wiggins this summer. The former Warriors wing could be included in a potential Kevin Durant deal, especially if Miami manages to convince Phoenix. According to recent rumors, the Lakers have the expiring contracts needed to facilitate a three-team trade. Wiggins, still young and a solid defender, would fill an urgent need in Los Angeles.

@Klutch_23 : “If this is true, Pelinka absolutely has to get involved in the Andrew Wiggins deal. We have everything necessary to help Miami and Phoenix agree on a trade for Kevin Durant, with all our expiring contracts. It would be professional malpractice not to try.””

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Are the Lakers ready to jump into the Kevin Durant deal?

GM Rob Pelinka is under pressure this summer, where every decision will count. Interestingly, John Gambadoro recently stated that the Suns don’t want Andrew Wiggins as part of any deal. This could push the Lakers to propose a package themselves to acquire the former All-Star without going through Phoenix. A risky bet, but potentially rewarding if things stall.

Remember, the Lakers want to surround Luka Doncic and LeBron James with versatile players. With LeBron aging, the choices made in summer 2025 could be decisive for the future. If Los Angeles manages to get involved in the Durant trade, everything could accelerate quickly—and fans would be the first to celebrate.

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Wiggins’ arrival could bring a renewed competitive spirit to the Lakers, while offering Luka a teammate capable of taking on offensive responsibilities when needed—and especially on defense. This complementarity might be crucial in an increasingly tough Western Conference.

As the draft approaches, negotiations will heat up. The Lakers, long spectators, could suddenly become key players. And if Wiggins becomes their new priority, the ball is now in Rob Pelinka’s court.