Walker Kessler Takes Accountability for Lakers' Early Defensive Struggles

Walker Kessler, the Lakers' starting center, is taking accountability for the team's early-season defensive struggles. The Lakers experienced their first loss of the 2026-27 season on Tuesday, falling to the Portland Trail Blazers 136-129 after opening with three consecutive wins.

The Trail Blazers showcased a potent offense, scoring at least 32 points in each quarter and shooting 59% from the field, including 50% from three-point range. They also attempted 41 free throws. The Lakers' defense, which had seen its rating fall from No. 19 to No. 22, struggled to contain Portland's offense throughout the game.

Kessler, acquired in the offseason, expressed that he feels responsible for the team's performance on the defensive end. "Coach and I had a conversation about me kind of [being] the linebacker of the defense," Kessler said. "So whenever the defense doesn’t perform well, it’s on me. It’s on our team, obviously. But I take responsibility for that."

The defensive issues have been a pattern in recent games, with the Lakers allowing opponents to score at least 117 points in their last three contests. The team's inability to consistently contain opponents was evident against the Trail Blazers, who effectively utilized drives and kick-outs to generate efficient scoring opportunities.

While Kessler's rim protection remains a strong asset, opponents are shooting 8.1% worse when he is the closest defender within six feet of the basket. This is a solid figure, though not at the elite levels he achieved in his initial seasons in the league.

"We’re gonna figure it out," Kessler stated. "It’s definitely frustrating, but it’s not just those guys giving up 3s. I didn’t do a great job in a lot of instances either. It’s not just that."