Walker Kessler Signs Four-Year Deal with Lakers in Sign-and-Trade with Utah Jazz

The Los Angeles Lakers have secured center Walker Kessler through a four-year contract in a sign-and-trade deal with the Utah Jazz. The agreement, finalized on July 1, 2026, includes the Lakers paying Kessler a salary totaling $130 million. As part of the trade, the Jazz received two first-round draft picks and two first-round pick swaps from the Lakers. Utah had intended to match offers for Kessler, making the draft picks the decisive factor in persuading the Jazz to release him.

Kessler, known for being one of the best rim protectors in his early NBA seasons, missed nearly the entire previous season due to a shoulder injury. In the 2025-26 season, he averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 3 assists per game, shooting over 70% from the field and 70% from the free-throw line. This season marked his fourth in the NBA, all played with Utah. The Lakers aim to strengthen their frontcourt with Kessler's defensive skills and potential impact moving forward.