Jalen Duren saga proves Lakers did Jazz a massive favor with Walker Kessler trade

Writer Matt John argues that the Los Angeles Lakers did the Utah Jazz a major favor by trading for Walker Kessler instead of pursuing Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren. According to reporting from The Athletic's Sam Amick, Duren served as Los Angeles' backup target if they failed to land Kessler. The Lakers ultimately finalized a deal for Kessler, while Duren remains locked in restricted free agency negotiations with Detroit.

The J-Notes notes that Kessler had reportedly informed Utah's front office that he intended to sign a qualifying offer, which would have allowed him to enter unrestricted free agency next summer. The writer contends that the Lakers' trade package saved Utah from risking Kessler's departure for nothing amid broader roster payroll constraints and Keyonte George's extension.