Lakers Trade Rumors: LeBron James and Co. handed 3rd-best odds to acquire dynamic 18.2 ppg and 42% 3-point shooting star

The LA Lakers are reportedly making aggressive efforts to strengthen their roster and add key pieces ahead of the Feb. 7 trade deadline. With LeBron James nearing the twilight of his career and Anthony Davis excelling on both ends of the floor, the Lakers’ front office is under significant pressure to surround their superstar duo with the necessary support to contend for a championship.

The Lakers have been linked to several players since the trade window opened, with much of the focus on discussions between GM Rob Pelinka and the Utah Jazz regarding a potential deal for Walker Kessler and Collin Sexton.

JJ Redick’s squad could potentially structure a trade package to acquire both Jazz stars without including key assets like Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura.

Amid growing speculation about a Lakers-Jazz trade, oddsmakers at Bovada have placed the Lakers as the third-best favorites to land Sexton. According to Bovada, the Orlando Magic and Milwaukee Bucks are currently ahead of the Lakers as the most likely destinations for Collin Sexton in a potential trade.

The Utah Jazz have struggled this season, currently sitting near the bottom of the Western Conference standings in 14th place with a disappointing 10-28 record through 38 games.

Despite the team’s challenges, Collin Sexton has been a standout performer, giving his all on the court. The 6-foot-1 guard, who is entering the prime of his career, has delivered impressive numbers this season.

He’s averaging 18.2 points per game while shooting an efficient 47.7% from the field, including an outstanding 42.0% from beyond the arc. Additionally, Sexton is contributing 2.8 rebounds, 3.9 assists and shooting a stellar 90.2% from the free throw line.

Lakers need Walker Kessler more than Colin Sexton

While Collin Sexton would undoubtedly provide a significant boost to the Lakers' offensive firepower, it’s Walker Kessler who could be the real game-changer for the Purple and Gold. The Lakers have been actively searching for a versatile center to complement Anthony Davis's dominance and Kessler appears to be an ideal fit for the role.

Following the Lakers’ demoralizing 126-102 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Monday, head coach JJ Redick expressed frustration over the lack of a defensive presence in the paint to contain Victor Wembanyama.

"Wemby being on the court, you have to kind of decide how you want to play coverage," Redick said. "The point of attack just wasn't good tonight. It feels like there's no one in the paint for us."

Adding a player like Kessler could address that gap and significantly enhance the Lakers' ability to compete in the post. The 7-foot center is averaging 2.5 blocks and 11.4 rebounds per game this season along with 10.8 points on 71.6% shooting, including 50.0% from beyond the arc.