There have been rumors about the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat making a deal recently, but some people think it’ll never happen.

The reason behind that is Pat Riley, who apparently still holds a grudge against LeBron James for leaving the Miami Heat years ago.

That might mean that any deal for Andrew Wiggins could be completely dead in the water unless Riley changes his mind.

“I would be stunned if Pat did this trade. You really think Pat wants to help LeBron [James]? He’s still mad about LeBron leaving Miami. I don’t see it happening,” per an NBA executive.

An NBA executive says Pat Riley wouldn’t trade Andrew Wiggins to the Lakers because he doesn’t want to help LeBron

“I would be stunned if Pat did this trade. You really think Pat wants to help LeBron [James]? He’s still mad about LeBron leaving Miami. I don’t see it happening.”… pic.twitter.com/MIZVfJjFhl

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 21, 2025

The Lakers are apparently very intrigued by Wiggins and believe he could be the missing piece the team needs.

They think that he would be a two-way player who could immediately slide into the rotation and give them a huge boost, not only on offense, but on defense too.

The front office would be willing to pay handsomely for Wiggins, but they may not get the chance if Riley is digging his heels in.

He knows he holds the upper hand in this situation, and he also has no desire to help the Lakers and James.

Even though James brought two championships to the Heat, Riley apparently still holds a grudge and isn’t letting it go.

Of course, a really healthy trade package might alter his view.

The Lakers may have to offer up even more if they wish to get Wiggins, because they are dealing with someone who simply does not want to help them.

Old grudges are quite impactful in the NBA, but money can always be more powerful.

The post NBA Executive Reveals Why Pat Riley Won’t Make Lakers Trade appeared first on The Cold Wire.