League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Injuries

Walker Kessler considers Lakers, praises Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 30, 2026, 11:28 PM

Last updated Jun 30, 2026

Walker Kessler considers Lakers, praises Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves

Summary

Walker Kessler, a restricted free agent from the Utah Jazz, met with the Los Angeles Lakers amid NBA free agency. Following news of LeBron James leaving, Kessler expressed admiration for potential teammates Dončić and Reaves. Kessler declined a significant contract from the Jazz earlier, opting to explore other opportunities. With the Lakers needing an interior presence, Kessler's potential signing could address this gap, although the Jazz can match any offer sheet he receives.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Walker Kessler is exploring free agency after rejecting a five-year deal from Utah.
•The Lakers need a strong center following LeBron James' departure.
•Kessler praised potential teammates Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves.
•He averaged 14.4 points and 10.8 rebounds before a season-ending injury.
•The Jazz can match any offer sheet Kessler signs with another team.

Latest Updates

2:45 AMYahoo Sports — Luka Dončić reportedly 'excited' about Lakers' Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler deals in eventful offseason
11:28 PMYahoo Sports — Walker Kessler Makes Feelings Clear on Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves Ahead of NBA Free Agency Meeting With Lakers

What they're saying

"
The Los Angeles Lakers are set to meet with one of the top centers in this year’s NBA free agency class, the Utah Jazz’s Walker Kessler. Upon touching down in LA, the 7-foot-2 big man reacted to the unexpected news that Lakers veteran star forward LeBron James has decided to find a new home.
— Yahoo Sports