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Lakers Could Target 3 Veteran Centers in Major Trade to Back Up Walker Kessler

Los Angeles Lakers fans didn’t know how to feel after turning off their TVs following the team’s 12-point loss to the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday night. For one, star big man Walker Kessler, finally making his much-awaited debut, was…

By Adel Ahmad · Heavy

Published: Thursday, 15 October 2026 at 11:31 AM

Key Things to Know

Trevor Lane reported the Lakers could target Jalen Smith, Karlo Matkovic, or Goga Bitadze in a trade.
The Los Angeles Lakers suffered a 101-89 preseason defeat against the Golden State Warriors on October 13, 2026.
Lakers reporter Jovan Buha highlighted that the team was outscored by 29 points when Kessler rested.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Los Angeles Lakers could pursue trade targets to serve as a backup center behind Walker Kessler, according to Trevor Lane of the "Lakers Nation" podcast. Following Kessler's preseason debut in a 101-89 loss to the Golden State Warriors on October 13, 2026, the Lakers struggled significantly when the big man rested, highlighting the need for frontcourt depth.

Lane identified Chicago Bulls center Jalen Smith, New Orleans Pelicans big man Karlo Matkovic, and Orlando Magic center Goga Bitadze as potential trade targets. The Lakers reportedly prefer a permanent trade solution over free agency because signing players would require waiving two individuals to meet roster limits.

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Lakers Could Target 3 Veteran Centers in Major Trade to Back Up Walker Kessler

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