After kicking off the season with impressive wins and a 3-1 record since losing last night to the Suns, the Lakers look like they’re finally gelling under coach JJ Redick. But the team is well aware that adding a big, shot-blocking presence could push them over the top.
The Jazz’s Walker Kessler, a young and efficient center, has the skills to fill this gap and could perfectly complement Anthony Davis in the paint. Although it’s rumored that the Jazz might ask for two first-round picks, the potential boost he’d bring to the Lakers’ defense and rebounding game is hard to ignore.
1. The Lakers Need A Defensive-Oriented Center
Kessler has shown in his first couple of games this season that he’s an ideal defensive anchor, putting up 11.3 rebounds and 2.7 blocks per game. For a Lakers team that’s still figuring out its rotation, a defensive big like Kessler brings immediate value by allowing the Lakers’ scorers to focus on what they do best. He’s a consistent rebounder who can clean up the glass and guard the paint, keeping opponents from getting easy looks at the rim. His ability to protect the basket and create second chances on the boards would lighten the load on Anthony Davis, who often has to balance both rim protection and offense.
Adding a defense-first player like Kessler also works to LeBron’s advantage. With fewer offensive demands, Kessler doesn’t need many touches or plays drawn up for him, meaning more shots for LeBron, Austin Reaves, and D’Angelo Russell. This balance in shot distribution could be just what the Lakers need to keep a strong offensive flow, while also adding a powerful defensive piece who’s focused on stopping opponents.
Plus, at only 23 and on a rookie-scale contract, Kessler is a low-risk, high-upside addition. He’s already one of the top shot-blockers in the league, and at his age, he’s still got room to develop into an even more dominant force in the paint. Given how he fits into both the Lakers’ immediate and long-term needs, Kessler could be the defensive upgrade that pushes this team to the next level in their playoff push.
2. Anthony Davis Can Finally Play His Natural Role
Anthony Davis has been tearing it up to start the season, and his dominant play has already earned him the Western Conference Player of the Week title. Across these games, Davis averaged an impressive 34 points on 57% shooting, with 11 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.7 steals, and 2.3 blocks per game. Plus, last night, he added 29 points, 13 rebounds, and 3 blocks on the loss. Davis has been doing all this as the Lakers’ primary center, taking on the bulk of the interior defense and banging against opposing bigs. It’s a role that’s demanding, and while his early performances have been phenomenal, it’s clear that the team could benefit from freeing him up to focus more on scoring and perimeter defense.
In his season debut against the Timberwolves, Davis posted 36 points, 16 rebounds, and 3 blocks, showcasing his potential when fully engaged. He followed up with 35 points and 8 rebounds against the Suns, and then dropped 31 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 blocks in a clutch performance against the Kings, where he scored 14 points in the fourth quarter alone. These performances highlight how effective Davis is as a primary scorer, but the Lakers would maximize his impact by letting him return to his natural position at power forward, where he could focus less on battling in the paint and more on orchestrating the offense.
Bringing in a true center like Walker Kessler would give the Lakers the flexibility to play Davis at power forward, reducing the physical wear he endures and allowing him to play his best game consistently. This shift would make it easier for him to deliver these kinds of explosive performances without constantly being tasked with heavy interior defense, keeping him fresher and enhancing his scoring and defensive versatility.
3. The Lakers Could Have A Defensive Twin Tower Lineup
Imagine a Lakers defense that revolves around two elite shot-blockers—Anthony Davis at power forward and Walker Kessler holding down the center. With this setup, Davis could focus more on guarding quicker forwards, switching on the perimeter, and picking up steals without having to grind through all those physical matchups under the rim. Kessler, on the other hand, brings in his own shot-blocking and rebounding talent, forming a frontcourt that could easily rank as one of the league’s toughest.
This defensive “Twin Towers” look would be brutal for opponents. They’d face a double threat every time they enter the paint—if they get past Davis, they’ve still got Kessler waiting as the last line of defense. This combo would allow the Lakers to shut down easy points and dominate the glass, setting them up for more fast-break opportunities and smoother transition plays. Not only would it keep the energy balanced across both ends of the court, but it would also give the Lakers the versatility to switch between different defensive looks without losing their edge in the paint.
4. The Timing Is Perfect For The Lakers
If there’s a time to push for a championship, it’s now. JJ Redick is in his first season as head coach, and he’s got the squad looking fresh and motivated. Redick’s been vocal about his vision for this team, bringing in a fresh perspective and a hunger that’s contagious. His no-nonsense style and understanding of the modern game are already making a difference, as the Lakers kicked off the season strong and look more cohesive than they have in years.
Redick’s got the basketball IQ from his years as a sharp-shooter and analyst, and now he’s applying it to a team that’s ready to buy in and go all-in on a title run. With LeBron still playing at a high level, Davis in peak form, and a defensive ace like Kessler possibly on the horizon, Redick has the tools to transform this team into a defensive powerhouse while keeping the offense versatile and dynamic. It’s clear he’s ready to take the Lakers back to the top, and the players seem to be following his lead.
The Lakers are setting the stage to make Redick’s first season a memorable one, and if they can land that final piece in the frontcourt, it could be the perfect storm to bring another banner to the franchise.
5. A Realistic Trade Package: The Lakers’ Path to Kessler
The Lakers are in a prime position to negotiate a realistic trade for Walker Kessler by leveraging young talent and a future first-round pick. A potential package involving Jalen Hood-Schifino, Max Christie, and their 2029 first-round pick offers a strong balance for both sides. Hood-Schifino, a first-round selection with solid potential, brings playmaking and scoring upside that could thrive in the Jazz’s developmental environment. Christie, on the other hand, has shown flashes as a 3-and-D wing, a valuable asset in today’s game, making this a promising duo for Utah to consider.
For the Lakers, this trade would mean bringing in a defensive presence without disrupting the core players already making an impact. Kessler’s ability to guard the paint and rebound addresses the Lakers’ biggest need, allowing Davis to slide back to power forward, where he’s most effective. Plus, keeping key rotation players intact allows the Lakers to keep their depth while adding a player who complements their existing roster. This is a win-now move that doesn’t strip the team of its role players or defensive capabilities, which is crucial for a deep playoff push.
From the Jazz’s perspective, this trade package aligns with their rebuilding goals. A future first-round pick in 2029 gives them long-term value, and Hood-Schifino and Christie can develop into significant pieces for a young squad. Both players would have the chance to grow with consistent minutes in Utah, and the Lakers get the interior defender they need to balance the team on both ends.
