When the Los Angeles Lakers decided to trade Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton from the Brooklyn Nets, it was expected that this deal would be a harbinger of more moves to come. A highly anticipated target is Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler, who is on a rookie contract and would be a perfect fit in LA

The Lakers have been lacking frontcourt depth for several months now, with Jaxson Hayes, Jarred Vanderbilt and Christian Wood all missing time. Aside from Anthony Davis, head coach JJ Redick has relied on Christian Koloko for key minutes and often opted to play small.

Regardless of health, the center position is a need, especially with a larger body than Hayes and Wood. Kessler fits that bill and has been linked to the Lakers for some time, but it looks like Utah won’t move him before the February 6 trade deadline, according to Dan Woike of the LA Times:

While teams – including the Lakers – have expressed interest in Utah center Walker Kessler, NBA circles believe he is not available in a realistic trade scenario as Utah opts to acquire one of the NBA’s best rim protectors to be kept until the deadline expires.

Jazz CEO Danny Ainge previously traded with general manager Rob Pelinka, so there is a familiarity there. But it might not make sense for the Jazz to give the Lakers a young, quality big man when they have their 2027 first-round pick.

Granted, it’s protected in the top four, but Kessler would be a future player for LA to keep them somewhat relevant as they finally navigate life after LeBron James. However, that doesn’t mean things can’t change by the deadline.

If the Lakers were to eliminate protections on the 2027 pick and add another first in 2029, the Jazz might be willing to come to the table.

But regardless, from Pelinka’s perspective, he can sell himself on not getting a center by having Hayes back, Wood possibly returning soon, and Koloko playing well in limited minutes. Other skills needed include a point-of-attack guard and possibly another 3-and-D wing to further solidify their defensive identity.

The Lakers want speed and athleticism up the middle

With Walker Kessler likely no longer on the roster, general manager Rob Pelinka could look for additional players as the trade deadline approaches. Since the Lakers still have both first-round picks, they could make another move or two.

It appears the Lakers have a desire to add speed and athleticism as a big man as their guard room has been impacted by the loss of D’Angelo Russell and Gabe Vincent.

Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? This is the best way to watch player interviews, get exclusive event coverage, attend live shows, and more!