The Lakers could acquire the young Jazz superstar by parting ways with Jalen Hood-Schifino

While Anthony Davis has been an excellent frontcourt performer for the Los Angeles Lakers this season, the Kentucky product shouldn’t have to control the paint alone.

The Lakers could make a splash by signing a young phenom from the Utah Jazz.

“Walker Kessler is arguably the biggest name on this list and would be a game-changing acquisition for the Lakers,” Eddie Bitar of Fadeaway World wrote on Tuesday.

“The 7-foot-1 big man has already established himself as one of the league’s best shot blockers, averaging 2.8 blocks and 11.0 rebounds per game this season.”

“His defensive instincts and shot-altering ability make him an ideal complement to Anthony Davis and create a fearsome frontcourt that would be a nightmare for opposing offenses.”

“Trading a promising youngster like Jalen Hood-Schifino and multiple picks is a significant investment, but Kessler’s upside justifies the cost.”

“Hood-Schifino has potential, but the Lakers are in win-now mode and Kessler’s immediate impact outweighs the value of developing a guard.”

“His ability to protect the rim and clean the glass would offset one of the Lakers’ biggest weaknesses, especially against teams with dominant interior players.”

“Kessler’s youth and affordability also make him an important building block for the post-LeBron era. At just 23 years old, Kessler has the potential to be a cornerstone of the Lakers for years to come and signing him would be a no-brainer.”

Walker has been a productive shot blocker since his sophomore season at Auburn.

The veteran big man took 4.6 shots per game in the SEC, spooking opponents racing through the lane.

Additionally, Kessler has been an efficient low-post operator for years, shooting 60.8% from the field for the Tigers.

Fortunately, Kessler’s two-way brilliance has translated to the big leagues, as the third-year big man is shooting 71% from the field and blocking 2.8 shots per contest this season.

Although the former McDonald’s All-American is still developing, there is no doubt that his skillset would work well alongside Davis in Los Angeles.

With Hood-Schifino having shown little to no improvement, a blockbuster trade for Kessler could happen soon.

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