3 Potential Trade Destinations for Utah Jazz Center Walker Kessler https://t.co/mPNzOp23k1
— LakerTom (@LakerTom) July 14, 2024
Lakers Assemble Formidable Defensive Frontcourt
Pairing Kessler with Anthony Davis would suffocate opposing big men
The L.A. Lakers are one team that should be in the market to add a more reliable frontcourt addition to shore up minutes next to Anthony Davis . As the franchise looks to put together one more championship run with LeBron James leading the charge, Kessler could help create a defensive identity for the Lakers while also providing another lob threat.
The third-year center would also be a good option as Los Angeles tries to bridge the gap between the team’s aging veterans and their younger talent. While the Lakers are not a team teeming with tradeable up-and-coming prospects, the franchise does retain most of their future first-round picks – which could have value once James retires.
Lakers-Jazz Potential Trade
Lakers receive:
-Walker Kessler
Jazz receive:
-Cam Reddish
-Maxwell Lewis
-Lottery-protected 2026 first-round pick
Despite Kessler’s shot-blocking prowess and defensive awareness, his limited offensive skillset puts a cap on his value. While the 7-foot center has proved efficient enough around the rim, he doesn’t provide much with the ball in his hands outside of point-blank attempts and dunks at the rim. With this in mind, two first-round picks seems like too rich of an ask for any team, especially one with an uncertain future.
The Jazz could receive a solid enough pick from Los Angeles in this scenario, with the possibility of the pick conveying even further in the future if the Lakers miss the playoffs in 2026. Cam Reddish , now 24 years old and possibly heading to his fifth team, has shown to be nothing more than a high-energy flyer at this point in his career.
For a team trying to win in the immediate future with arguably the league’s greatest player, a first-round pick is a small price to pay for the Lakers. Kessler would allow Davis to move back to his traditional position or serve as a backup, providing the team with extra frontcourt flexibility.
Kessler seems like the most realistic center addition for the Lakers that makes sense. He’s likely just the backup to AD but would fill the role perfectly by protecting the rim and glass.
Give them a first round pick plus take off the protection from the 2027 pick they already owe. That should be a sure winner for LAL.