Lakers Acquire Kessler, Sign Mamukelashvili in Free Agency

The Los Angeles Lakers made significant moves in free agency on Wednesday, acquiring center Walker Kessler in a sign-and-trade deal with the Utah Jazz and signing free-agent big man Sandro Mamukelashvili. Kessler, a 7-foot-2 rim protector, averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks in five games last season before a shoulder injury. The Lakers sent two unprotected first-round picks (2031 and 2033) and two pick swaps (2028 and 2030) to Utah in exchange for Kessler, who is expected to sign a four-year, $130 million contract. Mamukelashvili, who had a breakout season with the Toronto Raptors, agreed to a four-year, $52 million deal with the Lakers. The 27-year-old averaged 11.2 points and 4.9 rebounds in 2024-25, shooting 38.9% from three-point range. The Lakers also added guards Collin Sexton and Quentin Grimes, further bolstering their roster for the upcoming season. Kessler's addition addresses the Lakers' need for a defensive anchor, while Mamukelashvili provides floor spacing and versatility. The moves come as the Lakers prepare for their first season without LeBron James, who announced his departure earlier this week.