The Los Angeles Lakers are being urged to step up their pursuit of Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler ahead of the trade deadline. Jovan Buha of The Athletic reported that Anthony Davis has pushed for another starting-caliber big man, making frontcourt reinforcements a priority for Los Angeles.
Buha noted that the Lakers have had interest in Kessler dating back to the offseason, but Utah has set a high asking price. The Jazz are not actively shopping the 23-year-old, but they would consider a trade if blown away by an offer.
Kessler is averaging 11.3 points and 11.4 rebounds in 29.7 minutes per game this season. He is in the third year of a four-year, $13 million rookie deal, making him a valuable asset on a team-friendly contract.
Los Angeles, currently fifth in the Western Conference with a 26-19 record, is looking to shore up its depth behind Davis. The Lakers have relied on Jaxson Hayes and Christian Koloko in limited minutes, but neither has provided consistent production.
Davis has carried a heavy workload in the paint, and injuries have been a concern throughout his career. Adding Kessler would give the Lakers an elite shot-blocker and rebounder, reducing the strain on their star big man.
The Jazz, sitting at 10-35, are in the middle of a rebuild and could be open to moving Kessler for the right package. However, Buha emphasized that Utah’s asking price remains high, potentially making it difficult for Los Angeles to strike a deal.
The Lakers have limited trade assets, with only a 2029 first-round pick and multiple second-rounders available. They could look to include young players like Max Christie, Jalen Hood-Schifino, or draft-and-stash prospects to entice Utah.
Kessler, a former first-round pick, has established himself as one of the league’s best rim protectors. His ability to anchor a defense would immediately bolster the Lakers’ interior presence.
Buha believes the Lakers should make an “even more aggressive” push for Kessler before the trade deadline. Whether Los Angeles can meet Utah’s demands remains uncertain, but Davis’ request for a reliable frontcourt partner may put pressure on the front office to act.
With the deadline approaching, the Lakers will need to decide if they are willing to part with significant assets to land Kessler. If they fail to make a move, the burden on Davis could become a growing concern as the season progresses.
