The Los Angeles Lakers' defense hasn't been amazing, but Walker Kessler's has been.
Writer Jack Simone argues that Walker Kessler is delivering on his preseason prediction of strong defense, while the Los Angeles Lakers overall are falling short. Across their first seven games, the Lakers hold opponents to a 59.6% field goal rate within five feet of the basket. Despite Kessler's rim protection, the team ranks 20th in defensive rating at 113.9.
Simone notes that Kessler's paint presence compensates for perimeter defense concerns involving teammates Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. The writer concludes that the rest of the Lakers roster must improve defensively for the team to achieve its championship aspirations.
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