Walker Kessler understands.
He knows what the standard is as a Los Angeles Laker.
He knows what the team gave up—then committed on the books—to pair him with Luka Dončić.
“It’s just depending on how you look at it,” Walker said after Tuesday’s practice. “You can look at it from two perspectives and I think the more energy you give, you know, the positive perspective looking at this opportunity, the less time obviously you spend worrying about the pressure.”
The 25-year-old will get his first opportunity to prove his energy on Wednesday night when the Lakers host the Warriors in their season opener. It will also mark his first NBA regular-season game since October 31, 2025, after undergoing season-ending shoulder surgery.
“I think it’s gonna be a lot of fun, Kessler said. “I think it’s gonna be a lot of nerves going into the game. But as soon as the whistle blows, I think the rest of it will take care of itself.”
What will Walker Kessler’s role be for the Lakers?
Pairing an athletic center alongside Dončić this offseason was a top priority for the Lakers. His 7’2″ frame allows him to be a true lob threat in the pick-and-roll, and his elite shot-blocking ability and paint presence solidify him as the Lakers’ defensive anchor.
“[Dončić’s and Austin Reaves’] ability to see the floor without even really looking… it’s a savant thing,” Kessler said when asked about playing alongside the Lakers’ star backcourt. “They’re exceptional players, extremely gifted. So what I’ve learned is that, always have your hands up. Just be ready to catch the ball.”
Lakers fans got to see flashes of Kessler with Dončić and Reaves, who signed a four-year, $185 contract extension this offseason, in limited minutes during the preseason. Kessler tallied 11 points on 4-for-6 shooting, 9 rebounds, 1 block and 1 steal in just one half against the Warriors last Tuesday.
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What are the concerns with Walker Kessler?
Health is the main concern with Kessler.
He only played five games for the Utah Jazz in the 2025-26 season before undergoing season-ending shoulder surgery. Dating back even further, Kessler’s only played in 63 total games the past two NBA seasons. In his 2024-25 campaign, which ended prematurely due to various injuries, he averaged 11.1 points per game and 12.2 rebounds per game.
Those concerns arose again this preseason, when Kessler missed three games after jamming his pinky finger in the backboard.
So when the Lakers traded two unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, plus 2028 and 2030 first-round pick swaps, then signed Kessler to a four-year, $130 extension, there were mixed emotions for fans.
However, Kessler is expected to be fully healthy and ready to go in his first year as a Laker. The combination of Kessler’s missed time in camp and a team of nine new players means the Lakers will likely continue to go through growing pains on the court to begin the season. But the energy and effort will always be there from LA’s defensive anchor.
“I think one thing that’s been solidified is we’re gonna compete our tails off… we’ve got a lot to learn, but with that mentality and that baseline, I think the sky’s the limit.”
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