Sources: Lakers Acquire Jazz Center Walker Kessler, Sign Three Players
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Los Angeles — The Los Angeles Lakers have reached an agreement to trade for Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler and have also secured deals with three additional players, according to sources familiar with the negotiations.
The framework of the trade and the identities of the incoming free agents were not immediately disclosed. League sources told ESPN that final terms are still being completed, and all transactions remain subject to league approval.
Kessler, 22, averaged 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds and 2.4 blocks in 74 games for Utah last season. The 7-foot-1 center was a first-team All-Rookie selection in 2022-23 after being drafted 22nd overall by the Memphis Grizzlies and sent to Minnesota before landing with the Jazz.
The Lakers finished last season 47-35 and were eliminated in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs. Adding Kessler is expected to bolster a frontcourt that already includes All-NBA forward Anthony Davis.
Details on the trio of signings and the assets headed to Utah are expected to be finalized once the NBA’s moratorium period ends later this week.
Source: ESPN
