NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers predicted to land $84,322,418 Utah Jazz duo to support LeBron-Luka power duo; Austin Reaves key trade asset?

The Los Angeles Lakers could make a major roster shakeup this offseason by trading fan-favorite Austin Reaves to acquire Utah Jazz standouts Walker Kessler and Collin Sexton. According to Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, this move would address key weaknesses while giving the Jazz a promising young core in return.

Why the Los Angeles Lakers Could Move On from Austin Reaves

The Los Angeles Lakers have relied heavily on Austin Reaves as a secondary playmaker and scoring threat, but his limitations on defense and inconsistent shooting have raised questions about his long-term fit. Pincus suggests that trading Reaves could bring in much-needed reinforcements. "Lauri Markkanen was an All-Star two seasons back and was nearly as productive in 2023-24," Pincus wrote. "While his volume and efficiency plummeted this past season, a big part of the problem may have been his lack of support. Reaves would help alleviate that problem." (H/t: Sporting News)

Proposed Trade Details

Here’s the full trade scenario outlined by Pincus:

Lakers Receive:

- Walker Kessler (C) - Collin Sexton (PG) - No. 43 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft

Jazz Receive:

- Austin Reaves (SG) - Jarred Vanderbilt (PF) - Dalton Knecht (SG/SF) - 2030 first-round pick swap (top-three-protected)

How Walker Kessler Elevates the Los Angeles Lakers’ Frontcourt

Walker Kessler, a 23-year-old center, would immediately bolster the Lakers’ interior presence. His elite rim protection and efficient scoring make him an ideal fit alongside Luka Doncic and LeBron James.

Walker Kessler’s 2023-24 Stats:

- 11.1 PPG - 12.2 RPG - 2.4 BPG - 66.3% FG

Key Strengths:

- Elite shot-blocker (7-foot-4 wingspan) - Strong pick-and-roll finisher - Reliable offensive rebounder

Collin Sexton’s Offensive Boost

Collin Sexton, a dynamic 26-year-old guard, would provide scoring punch and three-point shooting—two areas where the Lakers struggled last season.

Sexton’s 2023-24 Stats:

- 18.4 PPG - 4.2 APG - 48.0% FG - 40.6% 3PT

Key Strengths:

- Explosive slasher - Improved playmaking - High-energy defender

What the Jazz Gain in This Deal

For Utah, this trade accelerates their rebuild by adding young talent and future assets: - Reaves: A proven scorer and playmaker - Vanderbilt: Versatile defensive forward - Knecht: A promising rookie with scoring upside - Future pick flexibilityThis trade would be a gamble for the Los Angeles Lakers, but the potential payoff is significant.

Walker Kessler and Collin Sexton fill critical needs, while Utah gets a solid return for two players who may not fit their long-term timeline. As Pincus notes, "The Lakers could offset some of the scoring void left by Reaves by adding Sexton, and they'd pick up another throw at the dart board with that mid-second-rounder."Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors could acquire $251,019,650 Phoenix Suns superstar to for Big 3 with Stephen Curry and Jimmy ButlerIf the Lakers are serious about contending in 2025-26, this deal could be the bold move they need.