The Lakers have been on the hunt for a Center for a long time. It’s their star Anthony Davis’ wish too. They might not be firing on all cylinders this season, but LeBron James is still putting on a show and carrying the team. It’s that time of year again when trade rumors swirl around Bron’s teams, and this season’s Lakers are right in the mix. Fans are pushing Rob Pelinka and the front office to take action—whether it’s trading away future assets or shaking things up to give the team a better shot this year.

You can almost hear the “win-now” mentality taking over. One name that keeps popping up in Lakers trade rumors is Walker Kessler, the center from the Utah Jazz. But the Jazz isn’t just going to give Kessler up. During the pre-draft process, the Jazz was high on Dalton Knecht. In fact, he was a serious contender to be picked at No. 11 overall before they ultimately chose Cody Williams instead!

Now, “If the Lakers prioritize a trade for Walker Kessler, Knecht would need to be included alongside draft capital,” as reported by Evan Sidery of Forbes.

Well, Shams Charania had recently reported on ESPN‘s First Take that the Lakers already have players like Christian Wood, Jaxson Hayes, Jared Vanderbilt, and Cam Reddish. “How do you figure out a way to consolidate talent?” he asked.

And it’s a solid question—there’s only so much room on that roster.

Charania also added that the Jazz aren’t budging on their asking price for Kessler. “Every time they call on Walker Kessler in Utah, that asking price is really high,” Charania said. But, as he noted, “It takes two teams to tango.” While the $13,372,418 contract of Kessler with the Jazz might have been too much for the Lakers, with the 23-year-old rookie Knecht in the mix now, this could happen.

It’s no secret that Dalton Knecht has developed a friendly and mentor-disciple bond with the King. They’re often seen engaging in football banter off the court and ‘The Chosen One’ doesn’t shy away from praising the young gun when he puts in a good display.

Stephen A. Smith, however, has a contrary opinion to this, that may keep Bronny’s co-draftee with LeBron James for longer. “Maybe, if you just stick with the guys you have and continue to develop them, as opposed to sending them elsewhere to get a piece that’s supposed to be a key only to watch you go home early. Maybe you keep some personnel, you might develop into something!”

But amidst SAS’ advice, another trade rumor is floating around, suggesting the Kings have a player the Lakers might want.

The Lakers could add another solid scorer besides LeBron

The Lakers are focused on making the most of LeBron James’ final years, looking to build a championship-contending roster. With LeBron’s time winding down, they aren’t concerned about the future—just securing one more title before it’s over.

Meanwhile, the Kings are building their bright future with De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis leading the charge. Despite a rough start, the Kings have turned it around under interim coach Doug Christie and are back in the playoff hunt. However, calling them true contenders this season might be premature.

With Fox due for a massive contract extension, reportedly rejecting a previous three-year, $165 million bag, while seeking a bigger wage, the Kings may need to shed salary to keep him.

That’s where DeMar DeRozan comes in. The 35-year-old is still playing well, but with two years left on his deal, he might not fit Sacramento’s long-term plans. Trading DeRozan now, while his value is still solid, could bring younger assets back.

A deal with the Lakers could work, with Rui Hachimura and Max Christie heading to Sacramento in exchange for DeRozan. Hachimura’s contract expires sooner, and Christie is on a manageable deal, offering value for a team looking to build for the future.

If the Kings are realistic about their current season, moving DeRozan could make sense. If not, they’ll likely hold onto him for now.