Lakers Acquire Walker Kessler in Sign-and-Trade, Send Two First-Round Picks

The Lakers acquired center Walker Kessler from the Jazz in a sign-and-trade that sent two unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033 plus first-round pick swaps in 2028 and 2030 to the Jazz. Kessler signed a four-year, $130 million contract that begins at $30.1 million for the 2026-27 season, making him the 10th-highest paid center in the league.

The deal marks a significant investment for a player who has not earned All-Star, All-NBA or All-Defense honors and who appeared in only five games last season after left-shoulder surgery in November. Kessler said the franchise’s commitment affects how he approaches his new role.

“It definitely makes you feel a certain way when you know an organization believes in you. He is expected to serve as a lob-catcher, rim-runner and rim-protector alongside the Lakers’ backcourt. Kessler said he plans to set screens, protect the rim and generate assists for teammates.”

Kessler averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds and 1.8 blocks in five games before a torn posterior labrum ended his 2025-26 season. He said his shoulder now feels better than at any point in his career and that he is fully cleared to play. Before the injury he had begun attempting more three-pointers, making six of eight attempts last season after limited volume in prior years.

Kessler said the coaching staff has encouraged him to stretch the floor to create scouting challenges for opponents.