This is something to keep an eye on because we’ve already seen rumors of other teams going after Walker Kessler like the New York Knicks. And what we learned from the Knicks negotiations is that Utah asked for two first-round picks for Kessler.
Looking at the Lakers’ future picks, they could potentially give Utah a 2029 and 2031 1st round pick if they wanted. That comes across as pretty steep for Walker Kessler, but could the Lakers take the protections off the 2027 pick they owe Utah and maybe give the 2029? That might get it done, and Utah might be willing.
As we’ve said before, this is likely going to be a storyline to watch this year as teams are considering Kessler as an option. But what we know about Danny Ainge and the Utah Jazz front office is they will set a price and are not going to make a move unless someone hits that price point.
