Lakers Show Reported Interest in Horford, Kessler Amid 2025 Draft Moves

The Los Angeles Lakers are aggressively pursuing upgrades to their frontcourt ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft and free agency. They have shown significant interest in acquiring veteran big man Al Horford from the Boston Celtics, whose future is uncertain due to potential injuries to key Celtics players and the team's recent trade activity aimed at reducing luxury tax costs. Additionally, the Lakers are targeting Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler, though the Jazz have been reluctant to trade him despite recent openness to deals involving other players. With only one pick in the 2025 draft at 55th overall, the Lakers are reportedly exploring trades to move up in the draft order to select promising big men like Khaman Maluach or other frontcourt prospects. LeBron James remains a central figure in the Lakers' plans, expected to opt for a team-friendly contract extension to facilitate roster building around himself and Luka Doncic. Overall, the Lakers are preparing for a busy offseason focused on strengthening their frontcourt to build a competitive roster around their superstar duo.