What Led the Lakers to Consider Walker Kessler?
After coming close to acquiring Walker Kessler throughout the summer, the Lakers may reconsider the trade.
For the last stretch of LeBron James' career, the Los Angeles Lakers will stop at nothing to make the club better. They have been active in the trade market and may try to reopen a deal they were unable to finalize a few months ago, according to NBA source Anthony Irwin.
The Lakers and Jazz reportedly came very close to an agreement during the summer, but this year's negotiations have been erratic. Utah has brought up the fact that pairing Kessler with Davis would enhance the Lakers front court both now and, more significantly, in the future. The Lakers' first, top-four protected pick in '27 is held by Utah. As Davis aged and LeBron James retires, Danny Ainge has voiced concerns that Kessler would prevent the Lakers from completely bottoming out.
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How Would Walker Kessler Fit into the Lakers' Roster?
The season's first deal has already been made by the Los Angeles Lakers, but they might not be done yet. In a trade for D'Angelo Russell last week, they added Shake Milton and Dorian Finney-Smith, who assisted them with their perimeter defense issues. However, because of their lack of depth in the frontcourt, the Lakers are also searching for a center, and they have already found Walker Kessler.
Since being selected with the 22nd overall pick in 2022, 23-year-old Kessler has been a member of the Utah Jazz. Kessler is averaging 8.9 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game on 70.9% shooting in his first two and a half seasons. For the Jazz, he has been a reliable two-way big man who contributes size, effort, and a significant spark underneath the basket.
Kessler was on the Lakers' short list of possible trade possibilities this summer as they searched for ways to bolster their squad. He had the ability to give the frontcourt more depth and free up Davis to play power forward, which was his favorite position.
Regretfully, the Lakers lacked sufficient assets to entice the Jazz to make the transaction. They now possess the Lakers 2027 first-round selection, therefore it would be more advantageous for them if they were awful in order for it to turn into a high lottery pick.
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Walker Kessler: The Player the Lakers Almost Acquired
The Lakers will have to search elsewhere for their next starting center for the time being, but if the Jazz get desperate enough or the Lakers are prepared to increase their offer, it may be sufficient to resume trade talks.
The Lakers, who are 18-13 this season, have gained momentum following a difficult run of play. They have successfully re-entered the Western Conference playoff picture, sitting seventh in the West, and with a few more adjustments, they might contend for a berth in the top six.
Analyzing the Lakers' Trade Strategy: Lessons Learned
The Lakers are at a disadvantage in the trade market because they have little assets to offer, but there are many individuals who can assist them succeed. Can they locate the perfect man in time to preserve their season? That's the only issue left.
The Lakers will take on the Portland Trail Blazers at 10:30 PM EST on January 2nd following their matchup with the Cavaliers today. They will take against the Atlanta Hawks at Crypto.com arena on Friday, January 3rd, at 10:30 PM EST. The Lakers' last game is against the Rockets at Toyota Center at 7:00 PM EST.
