Dončić Was Key to the Trade That Shook the NBA: Why Luka Wanted a $130 Million Center by His Side

The aggressive move by the Los Angeles Lakers to acquire Walker Kessler reportedly had strong backing from Luka Dončić.

According to Iztok Franko, Dončić heavily lobbied for the Lakers to bring in Kessler, who was seen as the type of franchise center the Slovenian superstar desired alongside him in Los Angeles.

Franko also stated that if Kessler develops into the long-term defensive anchor the Lakers envision, the high price paid to acquire him could ultimately be viewed as the cost of building a true title contender around Luka. That price, however, was not insignificant.

The Lakers acquired Kessler from Utah, sending two future first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, along with first-round picks in 2028 and 2030. Kessler also agreed to a four-year, $130 million contract with Los Angeles.

This move provides Dončić with a young, defense-first center who can protect the rim, rebound, and operate as a lob threat, areas the Lakers clearly prioritized as they shaped the team around their new franchise star.

Kessler arrives in Los Angeles after building his NBA reputation as one of the league's most efficient finishers and rim protectors with Utah. Throughout his career with the Jazz, Kessler averaged 9.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 2.4 blocks in approximately 25 minutes per game, shooting 68% from the field.

Before a shoulder injury limited him last season, Kessler had his best season, averaging 11 points, 12 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks in 58 appearances for Utah in the 2024/25 season.

Dončić not only heavily lobbied for the Lakers to make this move but reportedly reacted positively to the deal when Los Angeles brought in the defense-focused center.

The Lakers also added other players this summer, including Sandro Mamukelashvili, Quentin Grimes, and Collin Sexton.

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