With a long offseason ahead and the Los Angeles Lakers seeking a path back to contention, insider Jovan Buha has compiled a list of ten potential trade targets the front office could pursue.
After a disappointing first-round playoff exit, the Lakers are exploring ways to build around Luka Doncic and LeBron James. Buha’s list features a blend of veterans, high-upside youngsters, and mid-level contracts, offering several options depending on the team’s approach.
Here’s a breakdown of each player from Buha’s list and how they fit into the Lakers’ plans:
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1. Jrue Holiday – Boston Celtics
Jrue Holiday might be the biggest name on the list, and ironically, the most complicated target. With Jayson Tatum expected to miss the entire 2025–26 season due to injury, the Boston Celtics may be forced into cost-cutting mode.
They’re already staring at a projected payroll that could exceed $500 million when factoring in taxes, and Holiday’s remaining three-year, $103 million contract now looms large.
At age 35, Holiday averaged a modest 11.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists this past season but remains one of the NBA’s most respected perimeter defenders and an elite “3-and-D” point-of-attack option. While his production dipped, his value in a playoff environment is immense.
The Lakers, however, would need to match salary and contend with competition from both the Clippers and the Mavericks, who may try to flip him elsewhere for younger assets or expiring contracts. Holiday’s price tag, both contractually and in trade value, makes him a gamble, but a potentially worthwhile one.
2. Andrew Wiggins – Miami Heat
Andrew Wiggins, who ended the 2024–25 season with the Miami Heat after being incl2. Andrew Wiggins – Miami Heat
Andrew Wiggins, who ended the 2024–25 season with the Miami Heat after being included in the Jimmy Butler trade, is coming off a quietly productive campaign. He averaged 18.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists, showing he can still be a capable two-way wing.At 30 years old, Wiggins fits the Lakers’ timeline better than older targets and would bring much-needed athleticism and defensive versatility. With two years and $58 million remaining on his deal, he’s more affordable than some other names.
Buha had previously singled out Wiggins as an “ideal fit” in Los Angeles, and if Miami decides to move him for draft capital or a package centered around younger wings, the Lakers could be contenders for his services.
