Lakers Insider Opens Door on Potential Walker Kessler Trade
As the Los Angeles Lakers explore options to bolster their roster during the offseason, one intriguing name has surfaced in trade speculation: Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler. According to a recent report from a Lakers insider close to the front office, the team has shown internal interest in acquiring the 7-foot rim protector to address longstanding issues in the paint.
Kessler, 22, is coming off a solid sophomore season with the Jazz, averaging 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game. Known for his elite shot-blocking and rebounding instincts, Kessler has quickly made a name for himself as one of the NBA’s most promising young big men. His affordable rookie contract and upside make him an attractive asset for teams looking to shore up their interior defense.
The Lakers, meanwhile, are entering a pivotal offseason. After another early playoff exit, questions loom about the future of the roster, especially around aging stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The team is in search of younger, defensive-minded role players who can contribute immediately — and Kessler fits that mold.
“The Lakers have had internal discussions about acquiring a young center like Walker Kessler,” the insider revealed. “They’re intrigued by his fit next to Anthony Davis and see him as a long-term piece who could anchor the second unit or start when AD shifts to the four.”
However, any deal for Kessler would likely be complicated. The Jazz are high on the young center and would command a significant return. Los Angeles would need to part with valuable assets — potentially including future first-round picks or emerging talent like Austin Reaves or Rui Hachimura — to even spark a conversation.
There’s also the matter of fit. While Kessler would bring much-needed rim protection, pairing him with Davis could create spacing issues on offense. The Lakers have struggled at times when Davis shares the floor with non-shooting bigs.
Still, the potential upside is considerable. Kessler’s presence could lessen the physical burden on Davis, allowing him to avoid constant battles in the post and extend his longevity. For a team eyeing another championship run before LeBron’s window closes, investing in defensive versatility may be the smartest play.
As the NBA Draft and free agency approach, the Lakers will have decisions to make. Whether they make a serious push for Walker Kessler remains to be seen, but the mere fact that his name is being floated inside Lakers circles suggests the front office is serious about reshaping its roster — and going all in on next season.
