LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Lakers acquired center Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz in a sign-and-trade agreement that will keep him under contract for the next four seasons for about $130 million, according to a person familiar with the deal.
The person, who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the trade has not received league approval, said Utah will receive two first-round draft picks and two first-round pick swaps.
The Athletic and ESPN first reported the agreement.
Kessler is the Lakers’ first major acquisition following LeBron James’ announcement Tuesday that he will leave the team and play elsewhere next season. The trade addresses the Lakers’ need at center and adds a young frontcourt player alongside guards Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves.
Kessler, who turns 25 later this month, appeared in five games last season before undergoing surgery in November to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. He and the Jazz discussed a contract extension last offseason but did not reach an agreement.
Before the injury, Kessler averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds and 1.8 blocks while shooting 70% from the field. Over his first three NBA seasons, he averaged 9.4 points while shooting 68%.
Kessler also represented the United States at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup in the Philippines.
