Lakers Rumors: Walker Kessler Trade Targeted 'Many Times,' Haven't Met 'Steep Price'

The Los Angeles Lakers may need to up the ante a bit to land some depth at center.

During an appearance of NBA Countdown, Shams Charania of ESPN reported that the Lakers have made several offers for Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler but have not been able to meet the asking price.

"They've tried to get Walker Kessler many times, they have not been able to meet that steep price," Charania said. "I'm sure they will keep trying."

This comes after Lakers center Anthony Davis said that the team needs "another big" so that he can shift over to the power forward spot.

Kessler is under contract through 2025-26 and can hit restricted free agency following that season. He currently makes $2.9 million and is averaging 11.3 points, 11.5 rebounds and 2.4 blocks in 34 games in 2024-25.

That low salary and solid play gives him significant value on the trade market as he could fit onto a roster with limited impact on the salary cap and luxury tax. With Utah struggling at 10-32, selling high on Kessler makes sense to help build the roster for the future.

The Lakers are 24-18 and are fifth in the Western Conference. Davis has played center throughout the season but sliding him to power forward, even if it's just in some lineup combinations, could help preserve his play.

Adding a player like Kessler to the lineup could really help bolster the Lakers roster and lineups, although it may require a significant package the team may not be comfortable surrendering.