Lakers predicted to trade Jaden Hardy for $165M rim runner to pair with Luka Doncic in mega deal

The Los Angeles Lakers went all out to acquire big man Walker Kessler in a sign-and-trade deal to start free agency. Kessler is someone the Lakers have been interested in for the last couple of years.

Even with Kessler coming to Los Angeles, the center position is still relatively thin, and the Lakers want to add more depth. The team continues to explore every avenue for another big man.

“The Lakers are still monitoring the market for big men, team sources told The Athletic," The Athletic's Dan Woike reported. "They traded for Walker Kessler and signed Kevon Looney to play center, and Mamukelashvili can play the position, too. The team could address the position either by trade or signing, like with potentially adding Thybulle. The roster is currently at full capacity."

LA does have veteran backup Kevon Looney, but relying primarily on him behind Kessler could become an issue if Kessler suffers an injury.

“This signing was a gamble. Loon was a replacement-level player last season. The Lakers clearly believe he will be better, but they need another option. Going into the season with just two true centers is a problem. If Kessler is forced to miss time, the Lakers have serious issues on defense and at the five,” Lake Show Life’s Tyler Watts wrote.

The Lakers could look to trade for another big man if the right opportunity presents itself. In a proposed trade, Heavy.com’s Adel Ahmad has Los Angeles acquiring Myles Turner in a blockbuster three-team deal.

“Lakers receive: Myles Turner and a 2032 second round pick (from CHI, via HOU or PHX). Bucks receive: Jarred Vanderbilt, Rob Dillingham and a 2031 second round pick (from LAL, via WAS). Bulls receive: Jaden Hardy and Jake LaRavia,” Ahmad wrote.

This would be a huge move for the Lakers, as it would give them plenty of different looks and lineup combinations to throw at opposing teams. Adding Turner would also give LA even more floor spacing, as he has proven he can knock down shots from beyond the arc. He can also finish around the rim, which would give Luka Doncic another dangerous option in the pick-and-roll.

Turner has made $165 million in contracts throughout his career so far. The Lakers would also be moving on from players they have reportedly been looking to move for some time.  Adding Turner would give the Lakers another versatile frontcourt option and could be a major win for them this offseason.

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