Walker Kessler creates difficult choices for Lakers regarding Austin Reaves
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 9, 2026, 5:07 AM
Last updated Aug 9, 2026
Walker Kessler's recent acquisition by the Los Angeles Lakers has put the franchise in a complicated financial position concerning star guard Austin Reaves. NBA analyst Zach Lowe highlighted that the Lakers may have overpaid for Kessler, leading to a potential need for trading Reaves in the future. Kessler, who completed the fourth season of his NBA career, aims to contribute significantly to the Lakers alongside Reaves and Luka Doncic. The Lakers finished last season with a 53-29 record but face challenges after major roster changes, including parting ways with LeBron James and several others. The organization hopes for stability as Kessler transitions into his role with the team.
- •Lakers acquired Walker Kessler in a sign-and-trade deal.
- •Zach Lowe expressed concerns over the Lakers' financial situation.
- •Kessler averaged 14.4 points and 10.8 rebounds in limited games last season.
- •Lakers finished fourth in the Western Conference last season.
- •The team underwent significant roster changes this offseason.
- 5:07 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers' Austin Reaves' future in limbo after Walker Kessler's blockbuster trade, says NBA insider
- 3:42 AMYahoo Sports — Zach Lowe reveals how Walker Kessler could ‘trap’ Lakers into Austin Reaves trade
"The Los Angeles Lakers have had added a lot of new talent this summer. However, it could very well put Austin Reaves future in LA on the line.
"NBA analyst Zach Lowe provided his concerns about the Walker Kessler putting the Lakers in a tricky situation financially with Austin Reaves.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 9, 2026, 5:07 AMLakers' Austin Reaves' future in limbo after Walker Kessler's blockbuster trade, says NBA insider
The Los Angeles Lakers have had added a lot of new talent this summer. However, it could very well put Austin Reaves future in LA on the line.
- Yahoo SportsAug 9, 2026, 3:42 AMZach Lowe reveals how Walker Kessler could ‘trap’ Lakers into Austin Reaves trade
NBA analyst Zach Lowe provided his concerns about the Walker Kessler putting the Lakers in a tricky situation financially with Austin Reaves.
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