Kendrick Perkins has suggested that the Los Angeles Lakers should target Utah Jazz players Walker Kessler and Collin Sexton as ideal trade acquisitions to strengthen their roster.
With the Lakers aiming for a championship push in LeBron James’ final years, these players could address critical gaps in their lineup.
Walker Kessler’s Fit
Kessler, a 7’0″ center, is known for his elite defensive abilities and rebounding. Last season, he averaged 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game, all while playing under 24 minutes. His defensive prowess and ability to control the paint would allow Anthony Davis to transition to his preferred power forward position. Additionally, Kessler could help improve the Lakers’ offensive rebounding, an area where they ranked last in the league during the 2023-24 season【11】【13】.
Collin Sexton’s Role
Sexton, a dynamic guard, is seen as a potential upgrade over D’Angelo Russell. With averages of 18.7 points and 4.9 assists last season, he provides scoring, efficient shooting (nearly 40% from three), and playmaking. His ability to thrive off the ball makes him an excellent fit alongside LeBron. While Sexton has faced criticism for his defense, his offensive skill set aligns well with the Lakers’ needs for more backcourt production【11】【13】.
Potential Trade and Challenges
A hypothetical trade might involve the Lakers sending players like Jarred Vanderbilt and Gabe Vincent, along with draft picks, to Utah for Kessler and Sexton. This trade would not only bolster the Lakers’ championship hopes but also benefit the Jazz, who are rebuilding and looking to accumulate assets. However, securing both players could require significant draft capital, and the Jazz, led by shrewd executive Danny Ainge, are expected to demand a high price【12】【13】.
This proposal underscores the Lakers’ urgency to optimize their roster for immediate success while the Jazz consider leveraging their assets for a long-term rebuild. Whether such a deal materializes depends on negotiations and the value both teams place on these players.
Kendrick Perkins recently proposed that the Los Angeles Lakers target Utah Jazz players Walker Kessler and Collin Sexton to address key weaknesses and strengthen their title aspirations. The Lakers, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, are keen on making one last championship push before LeBron’s eventual retirement, and these two Jazz players could provide the missing pieces.
Walker Kessler’s Defensive Impact
Walker Kessler is widely regarded as one of the NBA’s most promising young centers. At 7’0″ with a 7’6″ wingspan, he excels as a defensive anchor and rim protector. During the 2023-24 season, he averaged 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game in just 23.3 minutes, demonstrating his efficiency and ability to impact games in limited playing time. His skill set addresses two of the Lakers’ glaring weaknesses: rebounding and interior defense. The Lakers ranked last in offensive rebounding and struggled to protect the paint, making Kessler an ideal fit. Furthermore, his presence would allow Anthony Davis to shift to his preferred position at power forward, enhancing the Lakers’ overall defensive versatility【11】【13】.
Collin Sexton’s Offensive Versatility
Collin Sexton is another intriguing option for the Lakers, especially given their need for consistent scoring and playmaking in the backcourt. Sexton averaged 18.7 points, 4.9 assists, and shot an impressive 39.4% from three-point range last season. His ability to thrive as both a primary and secondary ball-handler makes him an excellent fit alongside LeBron James. Additionally, Sexton’s off-ball movement and scoring efficiency could help the Lakers maintain offensive flow, particularly in high-pressure playoff situations. While Sexton’s defense has been criticized, his offensive contributions and ability to replace D’Angelo Russell’s production make him a valuable target【12】【13】.
The Proposed Trade and Its Implications
A potential trade for Kessler and Sexton could involve the Lakers sending Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, and future first-round picks to the Jazz. For Utah, this aligns with their rebuilding strategy of accumulating draft assets. The Jazz are reportedly open to trading players like Sexton and potentially Kessler if the return justifies it. However, given Danny Ainge’s reputation for driving hard bargains, the Lakers would likely need to include significant draft compensation【12】【13】.
Challenges and Considerations
While the proposed deal seems beneficial for both sides, there are hurdles. For the Lakers, sacrificing multiple first-round picks could hinder their long-term flexibility. On the Jazz’s side, giving up Kessler—one of the league’s best young defensive centers—might be seen as counterproductive unless the offer is overwhelming. Moreover, the Lakers’ limited trade assets, combined with the Jazz’s leverage, could complicate negotiations【11】【13】.
In summary, acquiring Walker Kessler and Collin Sexton could provide the Lakers with critical reinforcements for a championship push. Kessler’s defense and Sexton’s scoring align perfectly with the Lakers’ needs, but executing the trade will require balancing immediate gains against long-term considerations. Whether the Jazz and Lakers can find common ground remains to be seen.
