The Los Angeles Lakers are at a pivotal juncture in franchise history. Following an underwhelming playoff exit in 2025, it’s clear the roster doesn’t need a full rebuild—but it absolutely needs a smart, strategic retool. With Luka Dončić entering his prime and LeBron James continuing to battle Father Time, the team can no longer rely on them to shoulder the nightly load.
Photo Cred: CNN
While fans may clamor for another marquee name, the Lakers’ most urgent need is more fundamental: size, toughness, and consistency in the frontcourt. Two names should top the Lakers’ target list in free agency or via trade: Walker Kessler and Naz Reid. Though they bring vastly different skill sets, both could revolutionize L.A.’s frontcourt depth and address the weaknesses that haunted the team last season.
After trading Anthony Davis, the Lakers were left painfully thin up front. Relying on Jaxon Hayes as the starting center isn’t a viable path to contention. Enter Walker Kessler, the 7’1” rim-protecting anchor from the Utah Jazz. Kessler quickly emerged as one of the league’s premier shot-blockers—leading all rookies in blocks in 2022–23 and finishing second overall in blocks per game his sophomore season. His elite timing, mobility in drop coverage, and relentless motor make him a true defensive force.
But Kessler’s impact goes well beyond the box score. He alters drives, dominates the glass, and serves as a legitimate rim deterrent. He would thrive alongside LeBron, Luka, and Austin Reaves, offering protection behind the perimeter while not demanding offensive touches. Only 23 years old, Kessler represents both immediate help and a long-term investment.
With the Jazz reportedly exploring trade options due to a crowded frontcourt and reported tension over his reduced role under Coach Will Hardy, now may be the time to strike. A package including two unprotected first-round picks and a wing player could be enough to get a deal done. If Kessler is the defensive hammer, Naz Reid is the offensive wild card.
Photo Cred: SLC Dunk
The 6’9” big man from LSU is coming off a breakout year with the Timberwolves, earning 2023–24 Sixth Man of the Year honors. Reid is the modern center-forward hybrid: he spaces the floor, attacks off the dribble, and has surprisingly polished footwork in the paint. On nights when LeBron or Luka rest—or when the offense stagnates—Reid can step in and deliver scoring bursts alongside Reaves.
Reid signed a team-friendly 3-year, $42 million extension with Minnesota in 2023. A trade built around Rui Hachimura’s contract and a draft pick could be enough to start negotiations. The Lakers have tried patchwork solutions at center for far too long. In a league where matchups dictate minutes and versatility wins championships, adding both a defensive specialist (Kessler) and an offensive weapon (Reid) would give L.A. the flexibility it needs to adapt and thrive.
Rather than chase another headline-grabbing name or bank on injury-prone veterans in the twilight of their careers, the Lakers should pivot toward a more sustainable and strategic model—one built around youth, depth, and adaptability. It’s tempting for a franchise rooted in Hollywood glitz and championship banners to always aim for the biggest star on the market. But the modern NBA rewards depth, two-way versatility, and roster balance just as much as star power.
