The Los Angeles Lakers have always been one of the most fascinating teams in the NBA. Despite having two All-NBA players that are both fresh off an Olympic gold medal win in 2024, the Lakers are widely viewed as long shots in the championship race. While their current performance will ultimately speak for itself, it’s essential for the Lakers to consider upgrading their roster, especially with the limited championship window remaining for Anthony Davis and LeBron James. The answers to the Lakers needs lie on a surprising team: the Utah Jazz.
The Jazz Hold The Key To The Lakers Season I
Throughout the 2024 offseason, trade rumors have linked the Lakers to several players and teams, all centered around maximizing the pairing of James and Davis. However, the best solution to their issues might not be the most obvious one.
A key focus for the Lakers during the offseason has been finding a strong, physical center to complement Davis. Davis has been vocal about the need for more depth at the center position, citing the 2019-20 season as an example. During that championship year, Davis thrived alongside veteran big men who contributed to the Lakers’ success.
Luckily, the Jazz may hold the key to the Lakers’ success. The Jazz’s roster includes a potential game-changer for Los Angeles: Walker Kessler.
Walker Kessler: The Answer to the Lakers’ Frontcourt Woes
Kessler is exactly what the Lakers need. Standing at seven-feet tall with a seven-foot-six wingspan, Kessler is known as one of the most promising defensive centers in the NBA. His size, defensive abilities, and relentless energy make him a perfect fit for the Lakers’ needs.
Kessler’s offensive rebounding ability adds even more value to his skill set, making him a solution for one of the Lakers’ biggest weaknesses. In the 2023-24 season, the Lakers ranked last in offensive rebounds and 21st in points allowed in the paint, two areas where Kessler excels for the Jazz.
Kessler averaged 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.6 offensive boards, and 2.4 blocks in just over 23 minutes per game during the 2023-24 season. His strengths align perfectly with the areas where the Lakers struggle most. Adding a defensive force like Kessler could solve many of their problems on both ends of the floor.
Acquiring Kessler would likely come at a cost, though. Reports suggest that the Jazz are seeking a first-round draft pick in exchange for Kessler. Since Kessler is on a rookie-scale contract, the Lakers would also need to match salaries, likely involving another young player such as Jalen Hood-Schifino or an additional draft pick.
A Backup Plan: Collin Sexton as a D’Angelo Russell Replacement
If a trade for Kessler proves too costly or complicated, the Lakers have another potential option on Utah’s roster: Collin Sexton. ESPN’s Jonathan Givony reported that the Lakers view Sexton as a potential trade target, and the idea has gained traction as the offseason has progressed.
D’Angelo Russell opted into his player option for the 2024-25 season, but the Lakers are actively shopping him in trade talks. Sexton could be an ideal replacement, offering similar production to Russell in terms of scoring, playmaking, and shooting.
Russell’s averages of 18.0 points, 6.3 assists, and 3.0 made three-pointers per game have set a high bar, but Sexton is up to the challenge. During the 2023-24 season, Sexton averaged 18.7 points, 4.9 assists, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.6 made three-pointers per game while scoring efficiently shooting 49.8% from the field and 39.4% from beyond the arc. Those numbers translate to an impressive 25.3 points, 6.6 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.2 made three-pointers per 36 minutes. Assuming Sexton can stay healthy, he has the potential to provide significant value in a starting role, and his skill set fits well with the Lakers’ offensive system.
Are the Lakers Ready to Make a Big Move?
Both Kessler and Sexton represent solutions to key issues for the Lakers, but they also come with challenges. Trading for Kessler would likely require significant assets, including one or more first-round picks. Sexton, while talented, comes with some uncertainty due to injury history and the need to adapt to a new role.
The Lakers have already shown a willingness to be aggressive in the trade market, and with the remaining championship window for LeBron and AD, they may need to take a bold step. Whether that means acquiring Kessler to shore up their frontcourt or trading for Sexton as a Russell replacement, the Lakers must address these roster gaps if they hope to return to serious title contention.
At the end of the day, Los Angeles must ask themselves if they are willing to take a risk to find long-term solutions for their glaring weaknesses. With time running out on their current championship core, the Lakers’ front office must weigh these trade options carefully to maximize their chances of success.
