Kessler Joins Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers have made a significant move, acquiring Walker Kessler, a 7-foot-2 center, in a sign-and-trade deal with the Utah Jazz. This acquisition aims to bolster the Lakers’ defense, which ranked 20th in defensive rating last season, though it was second in blocks. The team has been seeking an upgrade at the center position, particularly in rebounding, shot-blocking, and rim protection, for several years.
The trade involved the Lakers sending two future first-round draft picks and two first-round pick swaps to the Jazz. Following the trade, Kessler signed a four-year, $130 million contract with Los Angeles. While some have questioned the financial investment, Kessler possesses the potential to justify the price tag.
Health Update and Organizational Belief
Kessler recently held his first media availability as a Laker, where he discussed his health and his appreciation for the organization’s confidence in him. He confirmed that his surgically repaired left shoulder is now fully healthy, stating it “feels better than it’s ever felt in my life.” He added that the shoulder has been cleared, feels strong, and mobile.
The injury, a torn labrum in his left shoulder, had previously ended his season after only five games. Kessler revealed that he initially sustained this injury during his college career and had been playing with it for some time before it worsened last year, leading to the decision for surgery. He expressed that the organization’s belief, demonstrated through both monetary investment and draft assets, motivates him greatly. “For me, I’m somebody that, if I know they have that belief in me, I’m going to run through a brick wall for them. That’s how I’ve been wired my whole life,” Kessler stated.
Return to Play and Future Impact
Having been sidelined since Halloween of last year, Kessler has not played a competitive basketball game for an extended period. This time away from the court has reignited his passion for the sport, and he is eager to return to action. He noted that sitting out a full year provided perspective, making him fall in love with the game again and reinforcing his desire to play to win.
In his four seasons in the NBA, Kessler has averaged 9.5 points on 68.1% field-goal shooting, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks in 25.3 minutes per game. Before his shoulder surgery, he had begun to develop a reliable 3-point shot, a skill he discussed with Lakers coach JJ Redick. The Lakers have been relatively weak in the paint since trading Anthony Davis for Luka Doncic in February 2025, and Kessler is expected to provide a strong presence at the center position.
There is considerable anticipation surrounding Kessler’s performance with the Lakers, and he is expected to face significant pressure. However, his talent and mindset, combined with his full recovery from the shoulder injury, are anticipated to allow him to make an immediate impact. Reports indicate that Luka Doncic was a strong advocate for Kessler’s acquisition by the Lakers.
Kessler’s first media availability as a member of the Lakers took place on Monday.
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Source: sports.yahoo.com
