The Los Angeles Lakers invested a lot in Walker Kessler this season, acquiring him from the Utah Jazz and then signing him to a massive contract.

The Lakers gave up unprotected 2031 and 2033 first-round picks, plus first-round pick swaps in 2028 and 2030 to acquire Kessler, who was a restricted free agent. They then signed him to a four-year, $130 million deal with a player option and trade kicker.

Since the team acquired Luka Doncic in the blockbuster February 2025 trade, they have been searching for a center who could finish around the rim on one end of the floor and protect the rim on the other side of the floor.

With Kessler being available and only 25 years old, he became the perfect target.

Fans didn’t see a lot of Kessler last season as he underwent season-ending shoulder surgery after just five games. He averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and three assists in those five games, and had already proven himself as a physical force underneath the basket.

While Kessler worked out with the Lakers during the offseason and training camp, fans still haven’t seen the results on the court as he’s missed the start of preseason.

Speaking to the media, Kessler said he was limited in training camp because of his left pinky for “precautionary” reasons. Kessler said he just jammed it a little bit, but he feels good. He noted that he can still block shots.

He said that he wanted to play really bad because he didn’t play much last season, but he trusted the training staff and the front office.

Given the amount the Lakers invested in Kessler, there is no such thing as being too careful.

While the preseason reps are important to build chemistry, it’s not worth it to risk long-term damage to his pinky finger, especially in a preseason game.

If it were the playoffs, it sounds like Kessler would’ve gutted through things and been able to play, but the preseason is the preseason. Even healthy players will miss multiple preseason games to ensure they are ready for when the games matter.

The Lakers know what they have in Kessler; at least they know what they are hoping for. He’s the ideal center next to Doncic, and he’s going to make life easier for everyone on both ends of the floor.

There is no reason to risk that for preseason action.