As the 2025 NBA Draft and free agency approach, the Los Angeles Lakers are preparing to address key needs to better support their core of LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves for the upcoming season.
One of the most urgent priorities is acquiring a reliable center—someone who can protect the rim defensively while offering a solid offensive presence. The team has struggled in that area since dealing Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks earlier this season.
While free agency presents options like Clint Capela—who could be an ideal two-way fit—the Lakers may also look to the trade market for solutions.
A promising target could emerge if one Western Conference team makes a particular draft decision.
According to The Athletic’s Tony Jones, the Utah Jazz recently worked out Duke freshman Khaman Maluach, who is considered a strong candidate for the No. 5 overall pick and among the top big men in this year’s draft class.
> “Maluach is in the convo for the fifth overall pick,” Jones reported, highlighting the Jazz’s interest.
Should Utah select Maluach, the Lakers could explore a trade for Jazz center Walker Kessler, whose role might be diminished by the rookie’s arrival.
Kessler, 23, is under contract through next season and will be a restricted free agent in 2026–27. He posted career-best numbers last season—averaging 11.1 points and 12.2 rebounds over 30 minutes per game in 58 starts. His efficiency was also notable, with a 130 offensive rating and a 115 defensive rating.
While acquiring Kessler won’t be straightforward, he fits what the Lakers need. If free-agent options fall through, Los Angeles might need to include a promising asset like Dalton Knecht to make a deal appealing to a rebuilding team like the Jazz.
The next few weeks, between the draft and the start of free agency, could be pivotal. The Lakers’ ability to add a dependable big man could make or break their chances of progressing beyond the first round in the Western Conference next season.
