Walker Kessler's Immediate Impact: Lakers Center Excites Coach and Teammates
Despite not having played a game, newly acquired center Walker Kessler has generated significant buzz within the Los Angeles Lakers organization due to his personality and defensive potential.
Walker Kessler has quickly made a positive impression on his new Los Angeles Lakers teammates and coach JJ Redick, even before stepping onto the court for a regular season game. Acquired in a trade that cost the Lakers a significant package of draft picks and swaps, Kessler has signed a four-year, $130 million deal.
Redick described Kessler as a "two-way talent" but emphasized that the center's personality is what truly stands out. In multiple media availabilities since joining the team, Kessler has conveyed a strong commitment, stating he would "run through a wall for the Lakers." He elaborated that this means consistently competing, doing the "little things it takes to win," such as setting hard screens, crashing the boards, and sprinting the floor.
Kessler expressed gratitude for the Lakers' belief in him, acknowledging the substantial assets traded for his acquisition. "When you have someone backing you and someone that shows you the belief that they have in you, it makes it a lot easier to want to make them proud," he said.
Teammates have echoed the positive sentiment. Forward Jake LaRavia believes Kessler will "change everything defensively" and make wings and guards more comfortable playing aggressively. Matisse Thybulle added that Kessler's presence as a rim protector will allow him "to fully live up to my defensive potential."
Kessler is optimistic about the team's prospects, agreeing with Redick's assessment that the Lakers could be championship contenders. "I believe so. No question. Yeah, undoubtedly," Kessler stated when asked about the team's potential. He described the Lakers' defense as one that will be "nasty," highlighting the strength of the perimeter defenders as well.
Regarding Redick's coaching style, Kessler found him to be a "good motivator" and "incredible," noting that during film sessions, he felt ready to "fight somebody."
The Lakers' defensive struggles last season, where they ranked 20th in defensive rating and 27th in rebounds, are expected to improve with Kessler's addition. In the 2024-25 season, Kessler was second in the league in blocks and ranked among the top five in contested shots at the rim. His 2025-26 season was cut short by a shoulder injury after five games, during which he averaged 11.1 points and 12.2 rebounds.
Kessler feels he has not yet reached his full potential, suggesting his time with Utah allowed him to establish a baseline of playing hard, defending, rebounding, and setting screens. He remains uncertain about his ultimate ceiling but is committed to continuous improvement.
His arrival addresses the team's need for a consistent center and a strong defensive presence, potentially forming a "Big 3" with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Kessler, however, does not feel pressure but rather gratitude for the opportunity with the Lakers franchise.