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Walker Kessler is already justifying the haul the Jazz got for him

The Utah Jazz received two unprotected first-round picks and two first-round pick swaps from the Lakers for Walker Kessler.

By Jordanna Clark · The J-Notes

Published: Wednesday, 14 October 2026 at 5:30 PM

Key Things to Know

Jordanna Clark argues Walker Kessler's strong Lakers preseason debut justifies the significant trade haul Utah received for him.
Kessler recorded 11 points and nine rebounds across 16 first-half minutes against the Golden State Warriors.
The permanent trade sent Kessler to Los Angeles for two unprotected first-round picks and two first-round pick swaps.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Walker Kessler impressed in his preseason debut for the Los Angeles Lakers, recording 11 points and nine rebounds in 16 minutes against Golden State. Writer Jordanna Clark argues that Kessler is already demonstrating why the Lakers paid a significant price to acquire him from the Utah Jazz during the offseason.

Utah received two unprotected first-round picks and two pick swaps in the trade. Clark writes that the Jazz should feel satisfied with the trade return, noting the team leveraged Kessler's restricted free agency and their existing roster depth with Jaren Jackson Jr.

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Walker Kessler is already justifying the haul the Jazz got for him

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