The Los Angeles Lakers are making waves in the trade market, engaging in serious discussions with the Utah Jazz to acquire forwards John Collins and Walker Kessler, according to Anthony Irwin of ClutchPoints. This potential blockbuster deal could reshape the Lakers’ frontcourt, pairing a dynamic duo that averages a combined 20.4 rebounds and 3.4 blocks per game, potentially elevating the team to true contender status in the Western Conference.
Lakers’ Longstanding Admiration for John Collins
Sources close to the Lakers reveal that the organization has long been enamored with John Collins, a 6-foot-9 forward known for his versatility, floor-spacing ability, and explosive athleticism. Last season, Collins averaged an impressive 19.0 points and 8.2 rebounds per game, showcasing his ability to stretch the floor and finish with authority at the rim.
Irwin noted, “Many within the Lakers organization believe Collins would be an especially great fit alongside Luka Dončić.” While the mention of Dončić seems to be a misstatement given his affiliation with the Dallas Mavericks, the sentiment underscores the Lakers’ belief that Collins could thrive next to a superstar like LeBron James, providing the spacing and verticality needed to complement the team’s playstyle.
Walker Kessler: The Rim-Protecting Prize
The Lakers’ interest doesn’t stop with Collins. The team has also set its sights on Walker Kessler, a 22-year-old center who averaged 12.2 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game last season. Kessler’s elite rim protection and rebounding prowess would address one of the Lakers’ most glaring weaknesses: interior defense. His ability to anchor the paint could transform the team’s defensive identity, making him a highly coveted target.
However, acquiring Kessler is no easy feat. The Jazz have placed a steep asking price on the young center, and with the Lakers possessing only one tradeable first-round pick this summer, negotiations could prove challenging. Irwin emphasized the Lakers’ persistent interest, stating, “The Lakers have also remained interested in Walker Kessler and will likely remain as such until the end of time.”
Trade Package Possibilities
To make this deal work, the Lakers are reportedly exploring a package centered around forward Rui Hachimura and an expiring contract, such as those of Gabe Vincent or Maxi Kleber. These contracts would help match salaries without triggering a hard cap, preserving the Lakers’ financial flexibility for future moves. However, to land both Collins and Kessler, the Lakers may need to get creative, potentially involving a third team to sweeten the deal.
One intriguing possibility involves Austin Reaves, the 27-year-old combo guard who averaged over 20 points per game last season. Reaves, on a team-friendly expiring contract, could be an attractive asset for another team looking for a versatile, efficient guard. By rerouting Reaves to a third team, the Lakers could acquire additional draft capital—such as a first-round pick or pick swaps in 2026, 2028, or 2030—to meet Utah’s demands for Kessler.
A Mavericks-Like Transformation
The pursuit of Collins and Kessler draws parallels to the Dallas Mavericks’ trade deadline acquisition of P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford, a move that propelled them to the NBA Finals by bolstering their frontcourt defense and rebounding. Similarly, Collins and Kessler could provide the Lakers with a combined 20.4 rebounds and 3.4 blocks per game, addressing critical needs and elevating the team’s ceiling.
Collins’ ability to stretch the floor and attack the rim pairs perfectly with Kessler’s rim protection and rebounding, creating a balanced frontcourt tandem that could dominate both ends of the court. Such a duo would complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis, giving the Lakers a formidable lineup capable of competing with the West’s elite.
Urgency Under New Ownership
With LeBron James likely in the twilight of his illustrious career, the Lakers’ front office is under pressure to maximize their championship window. The team’s aggressive pursuit of frontcourt help signals a clear intent to capitalize on the present while building for the future. A deal for Collins and Kessler would not only address immediate needs but also position the Lakers as a powerhouse in the Western Conference.
While no deal is imminent, the momentum behind these discussions suggests that significant movement could be on the horizon. As the Lakers continue to explore creative trade routes, the prospect of landing this “monster” duo has fans buzzing with excitement. If the Lakers can pull off this trade, the combination of Collins’ versatility and Kessler’s defensive prowess could completely change the game, making Los Angeles a true contender once again.