Blockbuster Sign & Trade as Lakers Acquire Walker Kessler From Jazz
BREAKING: The Los Angeles Lakers are acquiring Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz for unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033 and first-round swaps in 2028 and 2030, sources tell ESPN. Kessler will sign a massive four-year, $130 million deal with the Lakers. pic.twitter.com/rt8b17fEQZ
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2026
Kessler will sign a massive four-year, $130 million deal with the Lakers, per Shams Charania.
The Jazz receive unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033 and first-round swaps in 2028 and 2030.
It wasn't that long ago that Luka Doncic said what he needs the Lakers to go get for him for next season was a big man to run with who can block shots.
There aren't many centers who can block shots better than the 7'2" Kessler, who also serves as a massive lob target who can quick-pivot out of screens and roll hard to the rim for dunks. He fits Luka's desires to a T.
Kessler, turning 25 next month, missed all but five games this past season due to shoulder surgery. He has averaged 2.4 blocks per game in his 4+ year career, along with 9.5 points and 9.3 rebounds. In his last full(ish) season, 2024-25, he recorded 11.1 ppg and 12.2 boards with his standard 2.4 blocks.
