Lakers pursue Walker Kessler as top summer target

The Los Angeles Lakers are pursuing Walker Kessler, a restricted free agent and rising center from the Utah Jazz. Kessler was set to meet with teams in Los Angeles on July 1, which marked the start of free agency. The Lakers plan to leverage salary cap flexibility following LeBron James' departure to secure Kessler, who has averaged 9.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game. While other free agents like Sandro Mamukelashvili and Quentin Grimes are also on the Lakers' radar, Kessler remains their primary focus. Discussions are ongoing as the Lakers aim to address their roster needs with multiple acquisitions.

• 3:54 PMYahoo Sports — Walker Kessler is heading to the Lakers
• 3:35 AMYahoo Sports — Marc Stein: Walker Kessler is Lakers' top summer target