The LA Lakers recently made headlines with a blockbuster trade, sending D’Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. As the Feb. 7 trade deadline approaches, the Lakers are expected to explore additional moves to strengthen their roster, aiming to contend for a championship while maximizing LeBron James’ remaining years.
Reports have linked Lakers GM Rob Pelinka to discussions with the Utah Jazz, potentially eyeing a deal to bring Walker Kessler to Los Angeles. Additionally, Jazz guard Collin Sexton, who is on a four-year, $70.95 million contract, has also been rumored as a target for the Lakers in recent weeks.
Amid the trade buzz, NBA insider Eric Pincus proposed a blockbuster mock trade that could see the Lakers acquire Kessler, Sexton and veteran sharpshooter Patty Mills. Notably, this trade scenario would allow the Lakers to retain key players Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura.
According to Pincus, the Lakers could land Kessler, Sexton and Mills by offering a package that includes Gabe Vincent, Christian Wood, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Cam Reddish, Jaxson Hayes, the removal of top-4 protection on their 2027 first-round pick, unprotected first-rounders in 2029 and 2031, a $7.4 million trade exception (for Sexton) and a $2.1 million trade exception (for Mills).
