The Los Angeles Lakers may very well be among the many groups monitoring Utah Jazz restricted free agent middle Walker Kessler because the offseason market opens. In response to Tony Jones of The Athletic, Kessler and his representatives will meet with a number of groups in Los Angeles at CAA’s headquarters as soon as free company begins.
The conferences come after Kessler declined a contract extension provide from Utah reportedly price practically $140 million over 5 years, creating uncertainty round his future with the Jazz. As a restricted free agent, Utah retains the power to match exterior provides, however Kessler’s state of affairs has turn into one of many league’s extra fascinating offseason storylines.
J. Kyle Mann of The Ringer lately talked about the Lakers as a group that has mentioned Kessler internally. He described Kessler as a participant groups could view as a priceless alternative regardless of the anticipated value of buying him.
Kessler, 24, has developed into one of many NBA’s finest inside defenders since getting into the league. By way of 4 seasons, he has averaged 9.5 factors, 9.3 rebounds and a pair of.4 blocks per sport whereas taking pictures 68.1% from the sector.
His 2024-25 season represented a significant step ahead, as he began all 58 video games he performed and averaged 12.2 factors, 11.1 rebounds, 2.4 blocks and 1.7 assists. Earlier than a torn left shoulder labrum ended his 2025-26 season after 5 video games, Kessler was averaging profession highs of 14.4 factors, 10.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.8 blocks whereas taking pictures 70.3%.
The Lakers’ curiosity would align with their largest roster wants. Los Angeles completed the 2025-26 common season 53-29, received the Pacific Division and reached the Western Convention semifinals earlier than being swept by the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder.
With Luka Doncic main the offense after averaging 33.5 factors, 8.3 assists and seven.7 rebounds, the Lakers are looking for frontcourt items who can complement a high-level perimeter creator. Kessler’s skill as a lob goal, rebounder and rim protector matches naturally alongside Doncic’s passing.
