Walker Kessler’s rebounding and rim protection could unlock both ends of the floor for a revamped Lakers roster built around Luka Dončić.
The Los Angeles Lakers entered the offseason knowing they could be forced to reshape their roster around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves.
LeBron James’ decision to leave L.A. for the Philadelphia 76ers confirmed that direction, leading the Lakers to prioritize youth, shooting and athleticism.
Their biggest investment was acquiring Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz and signing him to a four-year, $130 million contract.
“We had a feeling it was coming, and when LeBron chose to go elsewhere, that locked it in,” a Lakers front office executive told Spotrac’s Keith Smith. “The good news is that we knew we’d have Luka and Austin, and that made the pitches to the guys we added really, really easy to make.”
Feb 12, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) shoots against Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler (24) during the second half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-Imagn ImagesKessler fills Lakers’ biggest need
L.A. surrendered unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, along with pick swaps in 2028 and 2030, to land Kessler in a sign-and-trade.
The expensive acquisition reflected how strongly the organization valued his ability to transform its interior defense.
“We knew we needed a defensive anchor,” the executive said. “Walker can protect the rim and rebound. Those two things not only help our defense, but it can help trigger our offense too.”
Kessler averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.8 blocks while shooting 70.3% from the field last season. However, he played only five games before undergoing season-ending surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder.
During the 2024-25 season, Kessler averaged 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds and 2.4 blocks across 58 games. He has averaged 2.4 blocks over his four NBA seasons.
“Last year, we had to gang rebound a lot,” the executive said. “This year, Walker should help get the ball and get us out and running.”
A natural partner for Dončić
Kessler also gives Dončić an imposing screen-and-roll partner who can finish above the rim. His interior touch should create another dimension for a lineup expected to feature more shooting than last season.
Feb 12, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler (24) dunks against Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) during the second half at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-Imagn Images“On offense, he’s better than people realize,” the executive said. “He’s got excellent touch in the paint and around the rim. The jumper is coming too.”
The Lakers believe Kessler can also help Reaves, Collin Sexton and Quentin Grimes by creating separation with his screens and applying pressure as a rim-running threat.
His health will remain the primary concern after losing nearly all of last season to the shoulder injury. If Kessler returns to form, however, his rebounding and shot-blocking could provide the balance that L.A.’s offense-heavy roster needs.
The Lakers paid a premium to acquire him, but they view Kessler as more than another offseason addition. He is expected to become the defensive foundation of their new era.
