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Lakers center Walker Kessler believes his competitive side will overcome pressure

The 7-foot-2 center knows the magnitude of playing for the iconic NBA franchise. He's healthy and ready for the challenge, which begins Wednesday.

By Broderick Turner · LA Times

Published: Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 11:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Walker Kessler believes his competitive mindset will help him overcome the pressure of playing center for the Lakers.
The Lakers acquired Kessler from the Utah Jazz via sign-and-trade before signing him to a four-year, $130 million contract.
Luka Doncic and head coach JJ Redick both advocated strongly to bring Kessler to Los Angeles.

The Story in 60 Seconds

New Los Angeles Lakers center Walker Kessler says he is embracing the pressure of living up to the franchise's historic lineage of big men. Acquired from the Utah Jazz in a major sign-and-trade deal before signing a four-year, $130 million contract, Kessler prepares to make his regular-season debut for Los Angeles against the Golden State Warriors.

Lakers head coach JJ Redick and star guard Luka Doncic strongly advocated for acquiring the 7-foot-2 center to serve as a rim-protecting and lob-catching presence. Kessler is now fully recovered from shoulder surgery that limited him to five games last season.

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Lakers center Walker Kessler believes his competitive side will overcome pressure

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