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NBA·July 20, 2026 06:09 PM ET

Pelinka acquires Luka Doncic and Walker Kessler

The deals cost three first-round picks and two swaps.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jul 201 min read
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Los Angeles LakersNBA

What happened: Rob Pelinka executed trades to acquire Luka Doncic and Walker Kessler. The combined expenditure for the additions totaled three first-round draft picks and two pick swaps.

Why it matters: The moves completely reshape the roster's foundation around an elite offensive creator and Walker Kessler. Limiting the outbound draft capital to three outright selections preserves crucial flexibility.

What to watch: Attention shifts to filling out the remaining rotation spots around the newly established core.

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