Walker Kessler Acquired by Lakers in Massive Sign-and-Trade Deal

The Los Angeles Lakers landed elite rim protector Walker Kessler in a sign-and-trade with the Jazz, signing the 7-foot-2 center to a four-year, $130 million contract. Los Angeles sent two unprotected first-round picks and two pick swaps to Utah. Kessler, 25, is coming off a torn labrum in his left shoulder that limited him to five games last season. Holding career averages of 9.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks, he is expected to serve as the Lakers' defensive anchor.