The Los Angeles Lakers are in win-now mode and are desperate for a big man. Because that one roster flaw was exploited endlessly by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the playoffs, the Lakers will try to add a big man this offseason either via trade or free agency.
That's why the Utah Jazz make sense as a trade partner for the Lakers. They have big men who are both quality and capable of playing in the playoffs. Among the players who have come up are John Collins and Walker Kessler.
Last week, Andy Larsen of The Salt Lake Tribune said during a Locked on Jazz episode that Los Angeles is interested in Kessler.
Collins is a hybrid power forward-center. Defensively, he leaves a lot to be desired, but he's an upgrade over who Los Angeles had last season. Kessler is one of the best rim protectors and offensive rebounders, only three years into the NBA. Collins is older and, hence, is certainly available.
But Kessler, who is still on a rookie contract, is another story. ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel reported that, despite the Lakers' interest in the young center, the Jazz have insisted that he is unavailable.
"Walker Kessler remains high on the Lakers' wish list as well, although league sources continue to downplay his actual availability in Utah," Siegel wrote.
So much to talk about in today's Siegel's Scoop on @ClutchPoints, including the latest intel surrounding a Kevin Durant trade, Ace Bailey's draft stock, what to expect in the NBA Draft, and PLENTY of more intel:
The latest on all of this⬇️https://t.co/K13N5Iq4LI— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) June 20, 2025
Kessler would give the Lakers more of what they need than Collins would. The Lakers need more defensive personnel capable of dominating down low like Kessler. If they're serious about trading with Utah, Collins may not be their preferred player, but he might be the best they can hope for.
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