The challenge for the Lakers, however, will be acquiring Claxton at the right price. The Nets signed him to a four-year, $97 million deal in the offseason, and while he hasn’t been at his peak level this season, his contract is descending, making him a potentially valuable long-term asset.

Kessler is the headliner of this deal and he could easily provide the Lakers with strong production right away. The big man is one of the best defensive centers in the entire league and could give this team a legitimate running mate next to star Anthony Davis.

This mock trade would give the Lakers not only a serviceable starting center next to Anthony Davis, but one who could be a game-changer.

The Los Angeles Lakers continue their pursuit of Walker Kessler. Learn about the potential trade package and the challenges they face.