NBA Trade Rumors: Walker Kessler Has Big Name Suitor On Trade Market

Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler finished 3rd in Rookie of the Year balloting in 2022-23, after exploding onto the scene as a big man to be dealt with. He averaged 9.2 points and 8.4 rebounds in addition to his 2.4 block shots per game. The numbers were similar last season, but surprisingly his name entered the rumor mill as a potential trade candidate in the summer.

He hovered there throughout the offseason and now Jack Murray of Bleacher Report has cited Jovan Buha of The Athletic noting on his podcast that the Los Angeles Lakers have definite interest in acquiring the young rim-protector.

I think we need more time to see which guys become available. I think Walker Kessler is a name that the Lakers have been interested in that would make a lot of sense and would allow you to either start a two-big look or probably more realistically bring him off the bench.

The Lakers have been looking for another solid 'five' in order to be able to play Anthony Davis more at the 'four', a position he's more comfortable at. With Kessler in the lineup, as Buha notes, they could deploy a huge 'Twin Towers' type of arrangement with AD & Kessler both in the starting lineup, or at least have the 23-year-old come off the bench for some serious defense protecting the basket when Davis is not on the floor.

The Lakers have started the season 3-0, with AD certainly not minding the center assignment thus far, averaging a league-leading 34 points along with 11 rebounds and 2.3 blocks. Kessler, through two games, has also had a great start to the season, as 7-foot, 245-pounder is blocking 3.0 shots per game while pulling down 11.5 boards.

It's still hard to imagine the Jazz would part with him for anything but a massive price, but it's something to keep an eye on.