Miami Heat Reportedly Shut Down Lopsided Lakers Trade Proposal Involving Jaime Jaquez Jr.
In a speculative trade scenario floated by Sports Illustrated, the Miami Heat were proposed to receive Austin Reaves, Gabe Vincent, and Maxi Kleber in exchange for sending Andrew Wiggins, Kel’el Ware, and promising young star Jaime Jaquez Jr. to the Los Angeles Lakers. The reaction from Heat fans—and likely from Pat Riley’s front office—was swift and unanimous: absolutely not.
The hypothetical deal heavily favors the Lakers. While Austin Reaves has developed into a reliable secondary playmaker and shooter, and Gabe Vincent has roots in Miami, neither player moves the needle significantly enough to justify giving up Jaquez Jr., a 2023 first-round pick who has quickly become a fan favorite for his tough defense, IQ, and versatility on both ends of the floor.
Kleber, while a capable floor-spacing forward, has dealt with durability concerns and doesn’t fit the Heat’s long-term timeline. Conversely, Kel’el Ware is a promising young big man with raw talent and high upside, and Andrew Wiggins—despite his inconsistent play—still brings championship experience and perimeter defense.
From the Lakers’ side, this deal would be a coup. Adding Jaquez Jr. alone would provide immediate two-way impact, while Ware offers size and long-term upside at the center position. Wiggins could thrive in a new role with reduced pressure.
The Heat, however, are focused on developing their young core while staying competitive in the Eastern Conference. Trading away a key part of that core for depth and veteran names with limited upside makes little strategic sense.
In the end, this trade reads more like fantasy basketball than reality. The Heat front office is known for its discipline and long-term vision—and in this case, Miami says no. Loudly.
