The Los Angeles Lakers have been actively pursuing Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler, particularly during the 2025 NBA Trade Deadline. Despite their efforts to initiate discussions, the Jazz were unwilling to entertain trade offers for Kessler mid-season. However, the offseason could bring changes for Utah with new leadership under President of Basketball Operations Austin Ainge, raising the possibility of Kessler being available on the trade market.

Sources indicate that the Jazz may be open to discussing Kessler, who is eligible for an extension, alongside Lauri Markkanen. As a young and dynamic rim protector, Kessler could complement stars like LeBron James and Luka Doncic, especially given his rookie contract, which offers excellent value. Nonetheless, the situation is complicated by the Jazz's ownership of the Lakers' 2027 first-round pick, creating reluctance to facilitate a trade.