Los Angeles Lakers center Walker Kessler reached a significant statistical milestone on Wednesday, grabbing his 2,000th rebound in a game against the Milwaukee Bucks. This achievement makes him the 11th-fastest player in NBA history to accumulate at least 2,000 points, 2,000 rebounds, and 500 blocks.
Kessler is now the third-fastest active player to achieve this particular statistical benchmark, trailing only Victor Wembanyama and Anthony Davis. His current season averages for the Lakers are 14.9 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game. The Lakers, who have won six consecutive games, entered Wednesday's contest with a league-leading 10-2 record.
The 25-year-old Kessler was acquired by the Lakers in July via a sign-and-trade agreement with the Utah Jazz. The deal sent two first-round picks and two first-round pick swaps to the Jazz, accompanying a four-year, $130 million contract for Kessler. Last season, Kessler's performance was limited to just five games due to a torn labrum in his left shoulder, which required surgery.
Since joining the Lakers, Kessler has been a key contributor, particularly on the defensive end. He currently leads the NBA in contested shots with 140 and has anchored the team's defense, recording a double-double in six of his last seven games.