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Walker Kessler keeps proving he’s the rim protector Lakers need (but it’s not enough)

The Los Angeles Lakers are struggling on defense even with Walker Kessler providing outstanding rim protection.

By Tyler Watts · Lake Show Life

Published: Sunday, 1 November 2026 at 4:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Tyler Watts argues Walker Kessler's strong interior defense is currently not enough to fix the Lakers' struggles.
The Los Angeles Lakers sit 19th in defensive rating and last in rebounding through six games.
Kessler holds opponents to a minus-12.8 differential on field goal attempts within six feet of the rim.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Tyler Watts writes for Lake Show Life that Walker Kessler has provided strong rim protection for the Los Angeles Lakers, but the team still struggles defensively. Despite Kessler holding opponents to a minus-12.8 differential on shots near the rim, Los Angeles ranks 19th in defensive rating through six games.

Watts argues that the Lakers suffer from being the worst rebounding team in the NBA, averaging just 39.2 rebounds per contest. He stresses that head coach JJ Redick needs better rebounding and a reliable backup center behind Kessler to become a true championship contender.

Read the full article on Lake Show Life

Walker Kessler keeps proving he’s the rim protector Lakers need (but it’s not enough)

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