Lakers acquire Walker Kessler from Jazz in sign-and-trade deal

The Los Angeles Lakers announced the acquisition of Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz on July 1, 2026. In exchange, the Lakers traded their 2031 and 2033 first-round draft picks, along with pick swaps in 2028 and 2030. Kessler, a seven-foot shot blocker and former NCAA Defensive Player of the Year, signed a four-year contract worth $130 million. This move comes after LeBron James decided to play elsewhere, marking a significant shift for the franchise. Kessler is expected to bolster the Lakers' defense and serve as a key player alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

• 5:06 PMYahoo Sports — Walker Kessler Is a Perfect Fit as the Lakers’ Franchise Center