The Lakers hit the market: Kessler, Sexton, Grimes, and Mamukelashvili arrive in a total project remodel

Juan López - 01 Jul 2026
Walker Kessler los angeles lakers Mercado NBA Agencia Libre

The Los Angeles franchise gives up multiple first-round picks for Walker Kessler and completes a wave of signings to reinforce all positions around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves

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Kessler, new player for the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Los Angeles Lakers have carried out one of the most aggressive operations in the recent NBA market with a series of moves that completely reshape their roster, especially in the interior game and the perimeter rotation, aiming to strengthen the core surrounding Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves once LeBron James' departure has been confirmed.

The main move is the arrival of center Walker Kessler, acquired from the Utah Jazz in exchange for several first-round picks: unprotected picks from 2031 and 2033, along with pick swaps in 2028 and 2030. Kessler will also sign a four-year, $130 million contract with a player option in the fourth year and a full trade kicker, establishing himself as the reference center of the project.

Simultaneously, the Lakers have bolstered the interior rotation by adding Sandro Mamukelashvili, who has agreed to a four-year, $52 million contract with a player option in the final season. His arrival brings depth to the power forward and center positions, broadening the options in the paint.

The team has also strengthened the perimeter with the arrival of Quentin Grimes, signing a four-year, $60 million contract. His addition provides perimeter defense, shooting ability, and versatility in the backcourt, fitting into a rotation designed to complement the main playmakers.

Another notable move is the arrival of Collin Sexton, who has agreed to a two-year, $19 million contract. His role is projected as a scorer off the bench, capable of providing offensive spark from the second unit.

Is It Enough for Doncic?

With these moves, the Los Angeles Lakers significantly reinforce all lines of the team: they bring in a center with present and future potential like Kessler, add interior depth with Mamukelashvili, and include exterior rotation pieces with Grimes and Sexton. The outcome is a deeper and more structured roster around their main stars.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los Lakers golpean el mercado: Kessler, Sexton, Grimes y Mamukelashvili llegan en una remodelación total del proyecto