Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler (24) warms up before the game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center.
The Lakers target Walker Kessler to solve their center issues, but Utah’s high demands have stalled trade talks.
The Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly been relentless in their pursuit of Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler ahead of the trade deadline, but the Jazz’s steep asking price remains a significant roadblock.
According to NBA insider Shams Charania, the Lakers have made multiple attempts to acquire Kessler, seeing him as the ideal solution to their need for a rim-protecting big man. However, despite their persistent efforts, they have yet to meet Utah’s demands.
“They’ve tried to get Walker Kessler many times. They have not been able to meet that steep price. I’m sure they’ll keep trying.”
Kessler’s appeal is clear. The 23-year-old center is currently averaging 11.3 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game while shooting a league-leading 73.0% from the field. He provides elite rim protection and is a force on the boards, making him one of the league’s most promising young big men.
Additionally, his rookie-scale contract, which pays him just $2.9 million this season, makes him an incredibly valuable asset for any team looking to bolster its roster without taking on significant salary cap implications.
For the Lakers, acquiring Kessler would address their ongoing need for a true center, allowing Anthony Davis to shift back to his preferred power forward position. Davis has been vocal about his desire to play alongside another big man, citing the success of the 2019-20 championship team that featured JaVale McGee and Dwight Howard as examples.
Having a player like Kessler alongside Davis would not only enhance the Lakers’ defense but also allow Davis to preserve his energy and extend his effectiveness throughout the season.
However, Utah’s high asking price has stalled negotiations. Jazz CEO Danny Ainge is known for his tough negotiating tactics, and it appears he’s holding firm on Kessler’s value. Given Kessler’s performance and potential, Utah is understandably reluctant to part ways with him unless they receive a package that includes significant draft compensation or promising young talent.
Reports suggest the Jazz are looking for multiple first-round picks or a package that could help accelerate their rebuild as they sit at 10-32 and out of playoff contention.
The Lakers, currently fifth in the Western Conference with a 25-18 record, are in a win-now mode. With LeBron James nearing the end of his career, the franchise is under pressure to make moves that can improve their chances of competing for a championship.
However, their limited draft capital—namely their 2029 and 2031 first-round picks—presents a challenge. While they are reportedly open to including these assets in a deal, they appear hesitant to part with both for a player who, while impactful, is not a superstar.
Adding to the complexity, Kessler’s fit alongside Davis is not without questions. Both players operate primarily near the basket, which could create spacing issues on offense. Despite this, the defensive upside of pairing them together is too enticing for the Lakers to ignore.
As the February 6 trade deadline approaches, the Lakers will likely continue their pursuit of Kessler, exploring ways to sweeten their offers without jeopardizing their long-term future. Whether Ainge ultimately decides to move Kessler will depend on how much the Lakers—and any other suitors—are willing to pay. For now, the standoff continues, with the Lakers hoping to secure the defensive anchor they believe can elevate them into true title contention.
