Walker Kessler has been around the NBA long enough to know what a real point guard can do for a big man. He just has never had one quite like Luka Doncic.
Kessler, who the Lakers acquired this offseason in a trade with the Utah Jazz, is already thinking about how his game fits next to a superstar who demands so much defensive attention. Speaking with ESPN’s Ben Golliver, Kessler made it sound like a pretty simple equation.
“He has such a big presence on the court,” Kessler said. “It makes it a lot easier for all four guys around him to do what they need to do. I can play defense for him, set great screens and get him some assists. It’s going to be a lot of fun. I’ve never played with a point guard of that kind of size and stature to where he’s just a matchup nightmare.”
The Lakers went into the offseason knowing they needed more size. They had Deandre Ayton, but when the chance to upgrade came along, they moved him to Washington and then went and got Kessler from the Jazz. That’s a pretty clear signal about what the front office thinks of the 24-year-old’s potential.
Kessler missed most of the 2025-26 season due to left shoulder surgery, playing in only five games. But he says he expects to be ready for opening night. If his history is any guide, the Lakers might have gotten themselves a legitimate rim protector. Through 201 career games, Kessler is averaging 9.5 points, 9.3 rebounds and 2.4 blocks. Those numbers came on a Jazz team that wasn’t exactly loaded with creators.
The fit with Doncic is the part that has people around the league interested. Doncic thrives on pick-and-rolls and kick-outs to shooters, but he also has a knack for hitting bigs on the roll. Kessler isn’t a stretch five, but he doesn’t need to be. His game is about finishing around the rim, cleaning the glass and swatting shots on the other end. That’s a pretty straightforward job description next to a guy who draws double-teams every time down the floor.
Kessler was drafted 22nd overall by the Grizzlies in 2022 before being moved to Utah. He turned 25 in July. The Lakers are hoping he’s just entering his prime, and that a healthy shoulder and a generational playmaker can unlock a version of Kessler that goes beyond what he showed in Salt Lake City.
He seems to be thinking the same thing.
Leave a Comment