After playing only five games last season, Walker Kessler says his time away from basketball changed what he wants from it.
Walker Kessler’s first season with the Los Angeles Lakers has yet to begin, but the center already knows how much he missed being on the court.
A torn labrum in his left shoulder limited Kessler to five games with the Utah Jazz in 2025-26. The lengthy absence interrupted a promising start to his season and forced him to watch as other players competed without him. Now healthy and preparing for his return, Kessler says the experience changed his perspective.
“Sitting out a whole year definitely puts a lot of things in perspective,” Kessler told ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. “The heart grows fond in absence. I think falling in love with this game again and just realizing I just want to go win. I just want to play to win.” ESPN, Sports Illustrated
Sep 3, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers playerWalkerKessler(right) celebrates with Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Evan Phillips (59) after throwing out a ceremonial first pitch before a game against the St. Louis Cardinals at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesThat last point matters in Los Angeles. The Lakers acquired Kessler to fill a major need at center, pairing a proven rim protector with Luka Dončić as they reshape the roster around their star guard. Kessler has a chance to play meaningful games immediately after spending most of last season unable to play at all.
A return with real stakes
Before the shoulder injury, Kessler had established himself as one of the league’s most effective shot blockers. His size and timing give the Lakers a defensive presence around the basket, while his ability to finish near the rim could make him a frequent target for Dončić in pick-and-roll situations.
Those possibilities explain why his return is so important to Los Angeles. They also create a challenge: Kessler must regain his rhythm after an extended absence while learning how to play with a new set of teammates.
A healthy training camp would give him time to build that connection.
The Lakers need to see how he communicates on defense, handles the physical demands of regular minutes and fits alongside their perimeter players. Those answers will mean more than any projection made during the offseason.
What the injury changed
Kessler’s comments offer a glimpse into his mindset. He spoke about rediscovering his love for basketball and wanting to contribute to wins, an outlook that fits the responsibilities awaiting him with the Lakers.
He does not need to carry the offense. He does need to protect the rim, rebound, set effective screens and provide a reliable option when Dončić attacks the defense.
After nearly a full season away, even those familiar parts of his game will take time to restore in live competition. Kessler’s return will be measured over months, beginning with his ability to stay healthy and handle a consistent role. For now, the simplest part is also the one he seems to value most: He gets to play again.
