The Los Angeles Lakers are not pursuing Utah Jazz forward John Collins, despite recent speculation linking the 27-year-old to the franchise.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein on his Substack, the Lakers were incorrectly identified as trade suitors for Collins. Stein clarified that the rumors emerged amid reports that Utah made center Walker Kessler unavailable, but “any suggestion that the Lakers are a trade suitor for the 27-year-old is a mischaracterization.”
Collins is coming off a productive 2024–25 season, averaging 19.0 points, 8.2 rebounds, and shooting 39.9 percent from three in 40 games. He has a player option worth $26.6 million for the 2025–26 campaign.
Although the Jazz finished last in the Western Conference at 17–65, Collins was one of the few bright spots on the roster. His efficiency, rebounding, and defensive contributions drew attention across the league.
Still, Los Angeles is reportedly not among the teams interested in acquiring him.
The Lakers are coming off a disappointing first-round exit, falling to the Minnesota Timberwolves in five games despite finishing the regular season with a 50–32 record and a Pacific Division title.
In February, the team pulled off a blockbuster trade to acquire Luka Doncic from the Mavericks, signaling a commitment to building around the All-NBA guard alongside LeBron James. The front office also added Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris in that deal.
Collins, a versatile forward with playoff experience from his time with the Hawks, may still be moved this summer, but not to Los Angeles.
