The Los Angeles Lakers continue their search for a reliable center this offseason, focusing primarily on the Utah Jazz’s Walker Kessler. Despite recent speculation linking the Lakers to John Collins, Kessler’s teammate, sources close to the team have clarified that the Lakers are not pursuing Collins in any trade negotiations.
Since trading Anthony Davis at the trade deadline, the Lakers have been actively seeking to add frontcourt talent, with a special interest in Kessler due to his defensive abilities. However, Utah has kept Kessler off the trading block, which triggered rumors about possible interest in Collins as an alternative acquisition.
Clarifying Lakers’ Stance on John Collins Amid Trade Discussions
John Collins, a 27-year-old forward for the Utah Jazz, enjoyed a successful 2024-25 season, averaging 19 points and 8.2 rebounds per game with efficient shooting percentages from both the field and three-point range. Despite his solid performance, Collins does not play the center position and is not known for elite defensive impact in the paint.
Reports alleging the Lakers are considering Collins as a trade target have been debunked by NBA insider Marc Stein, who emphasized that such claims misrepresent the Lakers’ actual plans. The team’s priority remains securing a true front-line center, a role Collins does not fulfill despite his offensive talent.
Finding a front-line center remains a clear offseason priority for the Lakers, who have maintained a longstanding interest Utah’s Walker Kessler. The Jazz, though, have made Kessler unavailable for some time, which might have contributed to reports last week that suggested L.A. has interest in trading for Kessler’s teammate John Collins. Collins had a strong 2024-25 campaign, but I’m told any suggestion that the Lakers are a trade suitor for the 27-year-old is a mischaracterization.
—Marc Stein, NBA insider
While acquiring Collins could provide the Lakers with additional scoring and size, it would not solve their need for a defensive anchor in the center position. The Lakers’ evaluation remains centered on Kessler, whose skill set aligns better with their frontline objectives. This ongoing focus explains the lack of progress on any Collins trade rumors.
Daniel Gafford Remains a Possible Lakers Target, Though Recent Extension Adds Complexity
Another significant figure in the Lakers’ pursuit of a center has been Daniel Gafford of the Dallas Mavericks. Gafford demonstrated his value by contributing to Dallas’s run to the NBA Finals in 2024 alongside Luka Doncic, cementing his reputation as a formidable presence in the paint.
Despite the challenges surrounding further asset movements between Dallas and Los Angeles following the major Doncic trade, the Lakers have stayed open to the possibility of acquiring Gafford. However, Gafford recently signed a three-year extension worth approximately $54 million to remain with Dallas through the 2028-29 season.
While this long-term deal might seem to close the door on a trade, the contract appears structured to preserve some flexibility for Dallas in future trade discussions. This leaves the Lakers with an ongoing yet complicated option as they weigh their center search moving forward.
Why Securing a Center Is Vital for the Lakers’ Future
Since losing Anthony Davis—who was a dominant interior force—the Lakers have faced a clear deficiency in the center position, which is crucial for both defense and rebounding. Without a reliable defensive center, the team risks vulnerability in protecting the rim and controlling the glass, issues that have affected their overall competitiveness.
The Lakers’ targeted approach, especially focused on Walker Kessler, stems from a desire to fill this gap with a young, skilled shot-blocker who can add defensive toughness. Although other names like Collins and Gafford have surfaced, the Lakers’ strategic focus remains resolute on landing a front-line center who can replicate or surpass Davis’s impact.
As the offseason progresses, the Lakers are expected to continue their negotiations with the Utah Jazz regarding Kessler and maintain openness to other viable options within the market. Their persistent search underscores the importance they place on restoring strength to the team’s interior defense in preparation for the next NBA season.