LAS VEGAS — The Lakers have clearly expressed their enthusiasm regarding Walker Kessler.
This isn’t just a matter of words from different players. The actions and considerable financial commitment the team made to bring the 7-foot-2 center to Los Angeles reflect their strong desire to address a pressing need during the offseason.
In the process, they traded away two unprotected first-round draft picks for 2031 and 2033. Those were their last options to secure first-round picks without restrictions.
Additionally, there was a deal involving first-round picks from 2028 and 2030.
Kessler’s contract spans four years and is worth $130 million, starting at $30.1 million in 2026-27, placing him among the top 10 highest-paid centers in the league.
This seems like a significant risk for a player who hasn’t yet been elected to the All-Star or All-NBA teams and has only participated in five games since having left shoulder surgery in November.
Kessler recognizes this investment and is eager to validate the Lakers’ confidence in him.
“Feeling valued by the organization definitely influences you,” Kessler shared during his initial media appearance after joining the Lakers. “The financial aspect they’ve committed to shows more than just monetary belief; it reflects something deeper. Knowing they believe in me gives me the motivation to give my all. It’s how I’ve always been raised, and it helps me compete for the team.”
One strong advocate for Kessler’s acquisition was franchise superstar Luka Doncic. He made it known that he wanted the Lakers to bring in a top-tier center who matched his style of play — someone adept at catching lobs, running the court, and protecting the rim.
By signing Kessler, the Lakers have taken a crucial step, and Doncic’s presence will undoubtedly support Kessler’s transition.
Kessler has recorded an average of 9.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks in 201 regular season games since the Jazz picked him as the 22nd choice in the 2022 draft.
He quipped about Doncic, “He’s quite the playmaker. His presence makes everything simpler for everyone else on the court.” Kessler added how unique it is to play alongside such a dominant point guard, calling it a challenge for opponents.
As Kessler steps into his role, he aims to ease the workload for Doncic and his other teammates. He’s already recognized as an exceptional rim protector since joining the NBA.
In discussions about his role, Kessler commented, “What can I do? He definitely plays defense and sets fantastic screens. It’s going to be an exciting time.”
Though the Lakers have eight players on their roster already, Kessler finds some familiar faces. He previously played with Collin Sexton for three seasons at the Jazz. Sexton believes Kessler’s competitive nature aligns well with the team’s culture focused on hard work and commitment.
Kessler also shared experience with guard Austin Reeves, as they were both part of Team USA during the 2023 World Cup. Reeves described Kessler as a fun-loving, big presence on the court and praised his contributions to the game, highlighting his defensive skills and smart play.
In the truncated 2025-26 season, Kessler averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks but faced a shoulder injury that required surgery. He noted that his shoulder now “feels better than ever” and is “completely fine” after spending most of the last season off the court. The injury had lingered from his college days but worsened before he opted for surgery.
“I’m thrilled to be back on the court,” Kessler mentioned. “Not playing games for a year gives you a lot of perspective. The time away makes you nostalgic, and now I just want to play and win.” He’s optimistic about continuing the momentum he had during his initial games.
Before the injury, Kessler had also been pushing his shooting range, averaging 1.6 three-point attempts per game last season, compared to a mere 0.3 in his earlier years. He successfully shot 6 of 8 from beyond the arc last season after struggling in his first three seasons.
Coaching from JJ Redick has been essential, according to Kessler. “He’s a shooter, and we’ve had talks about my range. That ability makes it challenging for opponents to defend us. Whether it’s rolling or creating space, both will be vital.”
