Walker Kessler free agency update is great news for Lakers
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Walker Kessler was linked to the Los Angeles Lakers on last season’s trade market, but a trade never came to fruition.
Although the same occurred during this year’s trade season, the dynamic 7-foot-2 Utah Jazz center remains a player analysts and insiders believe could eventually land with the Lakers. Based on a recent free agency report regarding Kessler, the Lakers could be in great shape to secure Kessler’s services this summer.
“Here's what I'll tell you: the Jazz have a number in mind. I think they are comfortable in the $25 million per range, and Walker Kessler and his reps at CAA believe he's worth much, much more than that," ESPN’s Tim MacMahon said on Feb. 11.
"Now, some options have disappeared. But I'm just telling you, that's going to be a potentially very tense and extended restricted free agency process."
If Kessler and the Jazz are unable to reach a new deal (he’s in the final year of his four-year, $13.37 million rookie contract), Los Angeles should be prepared to steal the Auburn product from Utah by paying him what he’s worth.
It isn’t far-fetched to suggest Kessler will be an All-Star in the foreseeable future, as his smooth touch around the rim and elite shot-blocking chops have been on full display in the big leagues.
Kessler, who suffered a season-ending shoulder injury at the beginning of the year, averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 1.8 blocks, and 1.4 steals per game with the Jazz this season, shooting 70.3% from the field in five contests.
The Jazz’s inability to lock in their standout center for years to come could benefit the Lakers this summer.
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