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Walker Kessler is the best Clint Capela the Lakers could have asked for

Walker Kessler is perfectly playing the Clint Capela role for the Los Angeles Lakers that Deandre Ayton never wanted to.

By Svyatoslav Rovenchuk · Lake Show Life

Published: Sunday, 25 October 2026 at 1:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Lake Show Life argues Walker Kessler has thrived by fully embracing the interior role previously resisted by Deandre Ayton.
Kessler scored 26 points on 12-of-12 shooting against the Golden State Warriors in his Lakers debut.
The center added 22 points in a 125-117 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Lake Show Life argues that center Walker Kessler has successfully embraced the energetic rim-running role for the Los Angeles Lakers that Deandre Ayton resisted. Kessler opened the 2026-27 season strongly, recording a 26-point debut on 12-of-12 shooting against the Golden State Warriors before adding 22 points in a 125-117 win over the Los Angeles Clippers.

The writer notes that Kessler's defensive commitment, evidenced by eight blocks and three steals through two games, contrasts with Ayton's previous demands for touches. Playing alongside playmakers Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, Kessler's focus on rebounding and rim protection is highlighted as the ideal fit for the Lakers.

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Walker Kessler is the best Clint Capela the Lakers could have asked for

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