The battle for Kessler will intensify next summer! Lakers, Warriors, and Pacers all vying for the rising star: which team suits him best?

On September 29th Beijing time, ClutchPoints posted a graphic debating Kessler’s destination, indicating that the contest for him could reach a fever pitch next summer.

Earlier, The Athletic’s Tony Jones reported that Kessler will not sign an early contract extension with the Utah Jazz and will enter restricted free agency in the upcoming offseason.

Kessler is a versatile big man who excels in both scoring and defense, and currently, at least three teams are urgently seeking players like him to strengthen their rosters. ClutchPoints identified these teams as the Lakers, Warriors, and Pacers.

Starting with the Lakers — the fit between Kessler and the Lakers is obvious. With Doncic and LeBron as top-tier playmakers, their passing skills could significantly boost Kessler’s performance on the court. An NBA insider told Lakers Daily that the Lakers might not wait until the summer of 2026 but could attempt to acquire Kessler via trade during the 2025-26 season.

At the same time, Kessler fits perfectly with the Warriors, considered the “final piece of the puzzle.” If he joins Golden State, Curry and Butler will welcome this interior partner alongside Draymond; as long as the team surrounds them with reliable role players, the Warriors’ championship chances will immediately improve.

As for the Pacers, with Miles Turner’s departure, the team now has a vacancy in the frontcourt. Kessler might be the ideal candidate to help the Pacers get back on track.

Three teams, three roster gaps to fill. Which team do you think suits Kessler best? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.

Last season, Kessler played 58 games for the Jazz, averaging 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 0.6 steals, and 2.4 blocks per game, with a shooting accuracy of 66.3% and a free throw percentage of 52.0%, contributing 28 double-doubles. Over his career, he has averaged 9.4 points, 9.2 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.5 steals, and 2.4 blocks per game. In the 2025-26 season, his salary will be $4.9 million.