The NBA offseason has been set ablaze with the news that the Los Angeles Lakers have acquired center Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz in a blockbuster sign-and-trade deal. The Lakers are sending unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, along with first-round pick swaps in 2028 and 2030, to the Jazz in exchange for the highly-touted young big man.
Kessler is set to sign a new four-year contract with the Lakers, reportedly worth $130 million, with a player option for the fourth season and a full trade kicker included. This move comes as a significant development for the Lakers, especially in the wake of reports that LeBron James will be playing for another team next season.
The Utah Jazz, who had been in contract negotiations with Kessler for some time, ultimately decided to move forward with the trade after failing to reach an agreement on an extension. While the Jazz reportedly offered Kessler a five-year deal worth approximately $140 million, it appears the two sides could not find common ground on his market value. The Jazz also made moves to bolster their frontcourt depth, acquiring Jaren Jackson Jr. and re-signing Jusuf Nurkic.
Kessler, known for his shot-blocking and rebounding prowess, averaged 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game in the 2024-25 season, leading the league in offensive rebounds. He missed much of the previous season due to shoulder surgery. This trade marks a pivotal moment for both franchises as the Lakers aim to retool their roster and the Jazz look to leverage their newly acquired draft assets for their future rebuilding plans.
