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Sources: Lakers trade 2 first-rounders for Kessler...

ESPN · Jul 1, 2026, 4:51 PM

Key takeaways

  • The Los Angeles Lakers are acquiring Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz for unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033 and first-round swaps in 2028 and 2030, sources told ESPN's Shams Charania.
  • Kessler, one of the NBA's premier shot blockers and rebounders, will sign a four-year, $130 million contract with the Lakers, sources said.
  • The trade was made after sources told ESPN in June that Kessler turned down an offer from the Jazz for five years and roughly $140 million.

Why this matters: a sports story that could shift standings, legacies, or fan conversations.

The Los Angeles Lakers are acquiring Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz for unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033 and first-round swaps in 2028 and 2030, sources told ESPN's Shams Charania.

Kessler, one of the NBA's premier shot blockers and rebounders, will sign a four-year, $130 million contract with the Lakers, sources said. The includes a player option for the fourth season and a full trade kicker, sources said.

The trade was made after sources told ESPN in June that Kessler turned down an offer from the Jazz for five years and roughly $140 million.

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