Lakers Eyeing Trade for Specific Player to Pair with Luka Doncic

In another deal at the trade deadline, the Lakers landed big man Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets to pair alongside Doncic and LeBron James. However, the trade ended up being rescinded due to Williams failing the Lakers' physical. Regardless, the Lakers proved they could be aggressive in making moves to bolster their roster alongside Doncic.

While nothing is official, there are a few potential trade candidates for the Lakers, including Utah Jazz big man Walker Kessler (h/t Dave McMenamin on The Drive with Spence Checketts podcast).

Recently, McMenamin reported that the Lakers are "intrigued by" the possibility of landing the Jazz big man, though he also made it clear that no trade is imminent.

“The only thing on that front…is that Walker Kessler remains a name the Lakers are intrigued by,” McMenamin said. “Whether that will lead to any sort of deal, obviously, last year, the asking price was too steep, and, obviously, the Lakers ended up pivoting those assets that they were considering moving to the Jazz to get Kessler in order to do the Luka trade. That came off the table after the Luka trade. If they do revisit it, that remains a player that the Lakers feel could fill the void that they have at center. I’m not reporting anything’s moving towards [a deal] or picking up steam or anything like that, but Kessler remains on the Lakers’ radar.”

Kessler has spent his entire three-year career in Utah so far, and he is coming off the best year of his career. This past season, the Atlanta native averaged 11.1 points, 12. rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 2.4 blocks per game. If the Lakers do end up pursuing a deal for him, Kessler could be a fantastic addition to the team and would address a big need.