After the Los Angeles Lakers made the move to land forward Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton, many expected them to push their chips in even more.
Ahead of the trade deadline next spring, Los Angeles is still expected to be active in improving their roster.
In this new trade idea, Los Angeles does go for another title and lands some strong depth around their two-star players.
The trade proposal would involve the Utah Jazz, a team that the Lakers have a recent trade history with.
After studying the CBA and using the Spotrac trade machine, here is how a deal could look between the two sides:
Lakers receive: Walker Kessler and Collin Sexton
Jazz receive: Gabe Vincent, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jalen Hood-Schifino, the top-four protections off the 2027 first-round draft pick, the 2029 first-round draft pick, and a 2025 second-round draft pick Parting with the 2029 first-round pick would be tough for the Lakers but this deal could be worth it.
Sexton could fill the gap that D’Angelo Russell left and he would be on an expiring contract next season. Sexton has averaged 17.7 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game this year.
Additionally, he has shot 43.8 percent from beyond the 3-point line and would instantly help the Lakers shooting from distance.
Adding a player like Kessler to the mix would be massive for the Lakers. Kessler has dominated on the defensive end of the floor since he first arrived in the NBA a couple of years ago. On the season, Kessler is averaging 10.2 points, 10.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game.
His ability on the defensive end of the floor could unlock a ton for the Lakers since he would likely be playing alongside Davis. As far as his contract goes, it’s very team-friendly and completely on board with what the Lakers are looking for.
Kessler is making $2.9 million this season and then has a club option for $4.8 million next year. After that, the big man would enter restricted free agency. Los Angeles could try to extend him before then or possibly even flip him sometime next year.
This trade would be a risk for the Lakers but could get them closer to winning a title this season. Los Angeles has the mindset of championship-or-bust and the front office seems ready to do what it takes to win.