- Walker Kessler has already been described in the clearest possible terms by the Lakers: he is supposed to be the defensive anchor, the player who lets everyone else around him play a little more freely.
- Kessler was a full participant in practice on Sunday after missing the first three preseason games with a right pinky finger injury, and the Lakers are still trying to settle the rest of their opening-night picture.
- With only two games left, the Lakers are hoping Kessler can get into at least one of them before the regular season begins.
- The stakes around Kessler are not limited to the lineup competition.
- He was the Lakers’ big acquisition of the offseason, and the price was steep: two unprotected first-round picks and two pick-swap rights to bring him in.
- Kessler has already dealt with numerous minor injuries in his career, and the Lakers are aware that the gamble they made comes with the possibility of missed time.
- For now, though, he is back in practice and sounding eager to get moving.
- The Lakers know what they want Kessler to be.
Walker Kessler’s Return Puts the Lakers’ Defensive Blueprint on the Clock
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Sources & Referenced Reporting
- lakersnation.com, “Walker Kessler Compares His Defensive Role On Lakers To Football Linebacker,” Oct. 13, 2026.
- yardbarker.com, “Lakers face instant reality check on expensive Walker Kessler gamble,” Oct. 12, 2026.
- lakersnation.com, “Walker Kessler Returns To Full Practice; Eager To Make Lakers Preseason Debut,” Oct. 12, 2026.
- lakersnation.com, “JJ Redick Has Yet To Finalize Lakers’ Starting Lineup,” Oct. 12, 2026.
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