Lakers Trade Rumors: Walker Kessler Lands With LA Lakers in Proposed Deal

So the LA Lakers got the perimeter defender they so desperately needed in Dorian Finney-Smith in a trade with the Brooklyn Nets this past week.

But word is, they are not done yet. Center is another big target the Lakers are looking to improve for a serious run at a title this season. And while Jonas Valanciunas's name has been linked to LA consistently since the summer, certainly a bigger move from a defensive perspective would be to reel in rim-protector supreme Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz.

With that, Lakers insider Trevor Lane has suggested this proposed deal to get that done:

Who says no? pic.twitter.com/MADLM2qA8m
— Trevor Lane (@Trevor_Lane) December 30, 2024

LA Lakers Receive:

C Walker Kessler
PG Collin Sexton

Utah Jazz Receive:

F Rui Hachimura
C Jaxson Hayes
G Jalen Hood-Schifino
2029 first-round pick
2031 first-round pick

For the Lakers, they get themselves a formidable defensive duo up front by adding Kessler at the 'five' and allowing Anthony Davis to man the 'four'. Kessler is averaging 2.8 blocks per night, as well as 10.9 rebounds this season. At age 23, he'd be a piece for the future as well.

This deal would also replace some of the playmaking abilities lost by the earlier trade of D'Angelo Russell in the Nets trade, by acquiring Sexton.

For the Jazz, two first-round picks (that will likely be elite by then after LeBron and AD are faded from the picture) is a nice asset haul. Hachimura is really established now as a solid power forward, and is having a very strong year for the Lakers, playing over 33 minutes a game, averaging 12.5 points with 5.4 rebounds. The Jazz would also get a free look at Hood-Schifino before he hits unrestricted free agency.

Who says no?