Ayton is not enough! The Lakers will try to pursue Kessler: Jazz expected to demand Reeves plus multiple first-round picks

On September 26 Beijing time, as reported by Lakers Daily, despite signing Ayton to address the center spot, the Lakers have not abandoned their pursuit of Jazz’s interior player Walker Kessler. A league insider revealed to Lakers Daily that the Lakers plan to try once more to trade for Kessler in the 2025-26 season. In fact, the Lakers have already made two trade attempts for Kessler over the past two seasons.

The Athletic reporter Tony Jones previously reported that Kessler and the Jazz have yet to reach a contract extension agreement. This means he is very likely to become a restricted free agent. Kessler is one of the most promising young centers in the NBA. Last season, he played 58 games for the Jazz, averaging 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 0.6 steals, and 2.4 blocks per game, with a shooting percentage of 66.3%, free throw percentage of 52.0%, and recorded 28 double-doubles.

In his career so far, Kessler averages 9.4 points, 9.2 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.5 steals, and 2.4 blocks per game. In the 2025-26 season, his salary will be $4.9 million.

The Jazz are asking a high price for Kessler. A source revealed that if the Lakers want to acquire Kessler, they may need to give up Austin Reeves along with several first-round draft picks. Style-wise, Kessler possesses excellent alley-oop finishing skills and rim protection, and if paired with Doncic and James, he could form a highly complementary combination.

Unless the Heat change their stance in the Wiggins trade talks, the Lakers are expected to start the 2025-26 season with their current roster. It is reported that coach Reddick may have Doncic, Reeves, Hachimura, James, and Ayton as starters, while new additions Smart and LaRavia contribute off the bench.

Previously, many Lakers fans have been urging General Manager Pelinka to push for a trade involving Kessler. Pelinka has already made two attempts in the past two seasons, and before the February 2026 trade deadline, he will make a third effort.

Whether the Jazz will accept Pelinka’s offer this time remains uncertain; only time will tell.