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Lakers focus on backup center options after acquiring Walker Kessler

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 5, 2026, 2:33 PM

Last updated Oct 5, 2026

Lakers focus on backup center options after acquiring Walker Kessler

Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers are exploring trade options for a backup center after acquiring Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz. Kessler's arrival marks a shift in the team's direction following LeBron James’ departure. Reports suggest the Lakers are interested in Milwaukee Bucks player Kel’el Ware as a potential addition. Kessler is seen as a key piece for the future, but the Lakers may need more depth to support him during the upcoming season. The team is under pressure to finalize trades before the regular season begins later this month.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Market Watch

•Lakers acquired Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz.
•Team seeks backup center options ahead of the season.
•Kel’el Ware is a target for potential trade.
•Pressure mounts to complete trades before the season starts.
•Kessler expected to be a cornerstone for the team's future.

Latest Updates

2:33 PMYahoo Sports — Lakers Get Good Trade News on 7’0″ Sharpshooting Unicorn After New Report

What they're saying

"
The Los Angeles Lakers didn’t need to make any moves after LeBron James’ departure to show they were headed in a new direction. Once L.A. acquired Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz in a seismic sign-and-trade, it was officially the start of something truly unique. Only time will tell what the new-look Lakers will look like […] The post Lakers Get Good Trade News on 7’0″ Sharpshooting Unicorn After New Report appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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