Deal Accepted! just few minutes ago Utah Jazz star Walker Kessler Agrees to a 4-Year Contract Deal with the los Angeles lakers worth $109 Million as Their New Franchise Cornerstone
Walker Kessler Agrees to 4-Year, $109 Million Deal with Los Angeles Lakers, Becomes New Franchise Cornerstone
In a stunning move that could reshape the future of the Los Angeles Lakers, Utah Jazz star center Walker Kessler has reportedly agreed to a 4-year, $109 million contract with the Lakers
. This major acquisition signals a bold new direction for the historic franchise as they aim to build a new era of dominance around a rising young star.
Kessler, 23, emerged as one of the NBA’s most promising big men over the past two seasons. Known for his elite rim protection, rebounding prowess, and rapidly improving offensive game, he has been touted as a potential perennial All-Star. Averaging 11.7 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game last season with Utah, Kessler quickly established himself as one of the most feared interior defenders in the league.
The Lakers’ decision to commit over $100 million to Kessler underscores their confidence in his ability to anchor the franchise post-LeBron James. With Anthony Davis traded earlier this offseason, Los Angeles was in dire need of a defensive anchor and reliable presence in the paint. Kessler fills that role perfectly — and then some. He brings youth, upside, and a relentless motor, which the Lakers hope to mold into long-term championship potential.
This signing also marks a philosophical shift for the Lakers, who have historically pursued older, established stars in free agency. Instead, they’ve now secured a cornerstone player who can grow into his prime while being mentored by veteran leaders like LeBron James (should he remain) and potentially Luka Dončić, whose future with the franchise is still in flux. Kessler’s timeline aligns better with a long-term rebuild or a soft reset, giving the front office greater flexibility for roster construction.
Financially, the deal is significant. At just over $27 million per year, Kessler becomes one of the highest-paid centers in the league. However, given the skyrocketing salary cap and his age, the Lakers view this as a strategic investment. Should Kessler continue on his current trajectory, the contract could look like a bargain within two seasons.
The reaction from fans and analysts has been largely positive. Many applaud the Lakers for securing a young core player rather than pursuing aging stars with shorter windows. Kessler’s work ethic, defensive instincts, and team-first mentality also align well with the Lakers’ culture and expectations.
The acquisition raises questions about how the Lakers will fill out the rest of their roster. While Kessler provides a foundational piece, Los Angeles still needs perimeter defenders, playmakers, and reliable shooters to surround him. Additionally, how this impacts LeBron’s decision to stay or leave will be closely monitored.
Regardless, the Lakers have made their intentions clear: the future is now, and it begins with Walker Kessler. In a league dominated by star power and versatility, the Lakers are betting big on defense, youth, and potential — and they just might be right.
