According to multiple reports, the Los Angeles Lakers have already started trade discussions lately, even though the NBA Finals haven’t ended yet. One beat reporter for the Utah Jazz said they have had discussions with the Jazz about both center Walker Kessler and forward John Collins.
While Kessler could be the ideal player to plug L.A.’s massive hole at the 5 spot, Collins could be a questionable fit. While he can play the 3 and the 5 positions, he’s primarily a power forward. L.A. already has LeBron James, whose primary position these days is power forward, as well as Rui Hachimura, Dorian Finney-Smith and Jarred Vanderbilt to play at that spot.
According to Anthony Irwin of ClutchPoints, the Lakers have offered Hachimura to Utah for Collins. He also reported that many in the organization like the idea of having Collins on the roster.
The writer also noted that there is a possibility L.A. lands both Collins and Kessler.
Additionally, Irwin wrote that the decision of whether to swap Hachimura for Collins or keep Hachimura isn’t a simple one for the Lakers’ front office.
Collins, who is 6-foot-9 and 226 pounds, averaged 19.0 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.0 blocks a game while shooting 52.7% from the field and 39.9% from the field this season. He has a $26.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season.
