Walker Kessler joins Lakers in trade from Jazz after qualifying offer

Walker Kessler has been acquired by the Los Angeles Lakers from the Utah Jazz via a sign-and-trade deal, involving two first-round picks and two pick swaps. The trade was influenced by Kessler’s decision to accept a $7.06 million qualifying offer, leading the Jazz to seek compensation rather than risk him entering unrestricted free agency. Kessler, who spent four seasons with the Jazz, averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks last season. He will enter the 2026-27 season on a new four-year, $130 million contract, providing the Lakers with a starting center alongside All-Star Luka Doncic. During a training camp in Slovenia, footage showed Kessler and Doncic working together on court.

• 12:19 PMYahoo Sports — Walker Kessler’s Bold $7M Qualifying Offer Stance Forced Jazz Into Lakers Trade