Following Luka Doncic’s three-year, $165 million contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers, the spotlight is turning toward Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler as a potential new addition to the team. Kessler’s public reaction to the extension has sparked speculation among NBA fans about a possible Lakers trade involving the 7-foot center.
Walker Kessler’s Interest Sparks Trade Rumors with the Lakers
A screenshot shared on social media showed Walker Kessler engaging with the Lakers’ announcement of Doncic’s contract extension, which has intensified rumors linking him to Los Angeles. Fans on platforms such as X and Instagram responded enthusiastically, imagining how Kessler could complement the Lakers’ current roster.
Kessler’s recent performance supports this excitement. In 58 games last season, he averaged career highs with 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 2.4 blocks per game while shooting an impressive 66.3% from the field in 30 minutes per contest. Having been selected 22nd overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, Kessler has started 120 of Utah’s 196 games over three seasons and is already under contract through 2025-26, with a $4.9 million salary in the final year of his rookie deal.
How Kessler Fits into the Lakers’ Frontcourt Plans
Even after acquiring Deandre Ayton this offseason, the Lakers are reportedly still interested in adding Kessler. Should a trade materialize, it is expected that Kessler would back up Ayton as the primary center, while also allowing for double-big lineups featuring both players on the court simultaneously. This frontcourt duo could serve as a strong defensive and lob threat combination, enhancing the Lakers’ interior presence.
At 23 years old, Kessler’s timeline aligns well with Luka Doncic’s new long-term commitment to the Lakers, potentially providing the team with a versatile and impactful big man for years to come.
Trade Hurdles and Utah’s Steep Asking Price
Reports indicate that the Utah Jazz are demanding a significant return in any trade discussion involving Kessler. Jovan Buha of The Athletic noted that Jazz CEO Danny Ainge is seeking an offer that includes two first-round draft picks and a young player. This high asking price has made negotiations difficult, with the Lakers reportedly unable to meet Utah’s demands last season.
ESPN’s Bobby Marks highlighted the Lakers’ limited trading capital, explaining that Los Angeles can only offer one first-round pick within the next seven years, specifically in 2031 or 2032. Although pick swaps remain a possibility, skepticism remains about whether the Lakers can assemble a sufficiently attractive package to persuade Utah.
Nonetheless, if the Jazz eventually reduce their price before Kessler becomes a restricted free agent in 2026, the Lakers could renew their interest in acquiring him.
Fan Reactions and Possible Roster Implications
Fans have speculated on social media about how Kessler could impact the Lakers’ lineup. One fan suggested pairing Kessler with Ayton to create a formidable frontcourt duo, potentially involving a player like Austin Reaves moving toward Utah in return.
“Kessler and (Deandre) Ayton 1-2 punch like (Daniel) Gafford and (Dereck) Lively. (Austin) Reaves to Utah. Maybe some perimeter defender too” — Fan
This possibility has fueled speculation about a Lakers roster reshuffle that could strengthen their defense and interior scoring, complementing Luka Doncic’s playmaking skills following his lucrative contract extension.
Overall, while obstacles remain in negotiations, Walker Kessler’s apparent interest and fit with the Lakers could mark a significant development as Los Angeles seeks to build a championship-caliber team around Luka Doncic.