Following a disappointing previous season where they finished 47-35 and exited in the first round of the playoffs, the Los Angeles Lakers are looking to make significant improvements. One move the franchise is being rumored to take is trading for Utah Jazz big man Walker Kessler.
This offseason, they only added center Christian Koloko on a two-way contract, with no trades or major free-agent signings. However, rookie Dalton Knecht and the much-discussed Bronny James, son of LeBron James, could bring fresh energy to the team.
LeBron James, entering his 22nd season, continues to defy age, while Anthony Davis seeks to build on his stellar last season. New head coach JJ Redick aims to enhance the team’s offensive strategy, particularly encouraging Davis to take more three-point shots.
Key players like Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell are expected to play pivotal roles, with Russell having set a franchise record for three-pointers last season. Rui Hachimura is also anticipated to have an expanded role, while Gabe Vincent looks to bounce back from injury.
The roster includes several developing talents, such as Max Christie and Jaxson Hayes, alongside veterans like Christian Wood, who aims to improve on his lackluster previous season. With eyes on Bronny James, the Lakers are poised for a season filled with intrigue and potential as they strive for playoff success.
Los Angeles Lakers Rumored To Trade for Utah Jazz’s Walker Kessler
While most of the Lakers’ roster is shaping up just fine, they still have a need for a reliable big man to defend the post and grab rebounds. According to Bleacher Report’s Jack Murray, the guy they might go for is Utah’s Walker Kessler.
Jovan Buha of The Athletic reported that the Lakers have some interest in Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler and that he could be a name to watch as the campaign rolls along.
“I think we need more time to see which guys become available,” Buha said (49:25). “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.”
As the 2024-25 NBA season unfolds, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly interested in acquiring Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler. With Kessler averaging 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks last season, his 7-foot frame could enhance the Lakers’ frontcourt depth.
Jovan Buha from The Athletic notes that Kessler’s addition could allow for a versatile lineup, potentially enabling Anthony Davis to shift to power forward. Although the Lakers are off to a 2-0 start, they remain vigilant in the trade market without rushing to make a deal.
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