NBA – The New Center Who Intrigues the Lakers: Is Their Next Offer Already Known?

Pierre Haessig / (DR)

Par Mathieu Seguin | Rédacteur sport

As free agency approaches, the Lakers are exploring multiple options to fill a crucial gap in their roster. Finding a center who can provide presence and defense in the paint has become a top priority. Several names are circulating, but one stands out particularly for the California franchise.

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The Lakers are actively seeking to strengthen their frontcourt this summer, and one name has been coming up frequently in recent days: Walker Kessler. Given the struggles faced last season in the paint, the California team wants a center who can bring true defensive presence and make an immediate impact—while also supporting Luka Doncic.

Kessler showed promising qualities during his rookie NBA season, especially in rim protection. For the Lakers, he represents a credible solution to bolster their defense. Finding an effective center has become essential to aim higher next season, but finding the perfect fit won’t be easy.

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A new target for the Lakers?

There are talks behind the scenes about a potential trade with Utah involving Dalton Knecht and a 2031 first-round pick. Recall that Knecht was traded to the Hornets in February in a deal that was ultimately canceled due to a physical issue detected with Mark Williams, showing how delicate such negotiations can be.

Negotiating with Danny Ainge, the Jazz executive, won’t be easy. Known as a tough negotiator, Ainge will demand a high return to part with a promising talent like Kessler. And this could quickly become a sticking point in talks.

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ESPN : “Walker Kessler remains a name that the Lakers are intrigued by…That remains a player that the Lakers feel could fill the void that they have at center.”

The Angels are not relying solely on this option and continue to explore other ways to strengthen their inside game. This case highlights the challenges the Lakers face—balancing sporting ambitions, salary constraints, and the need to remain competitive.

This summer promises to be crucial for Los Angeles, with the Kessler dossier likely to be one of the front office’s major projects in the coming weeks.

Los Angeles Lakers NBA Utah Jazz Western Conference