Walker Kessler is having more of an impact than it looks

Alex Regla of Silver Screen and Roll argues that Los Angeles Lakers center Walker Kessler is providing quiet, elite value beyond raw statistics. Kessler is averaging 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, and four stocks per game while serving as an effective screener for Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. Regla notes that Kessler's presence draws defensive attention in the paint, creating open perimeter looks and boosting the Lakers' offensive rebounding percentage by nearly 10% when on the court.

Defensively, Kessler serves as the team's anchor, ranking first in defended shooting percentage against within six feet at 45.1%. Through nine games, the Lakers hold a 110.1 defensive rating with Kessler playing compared to 117.2 when he sits. Regla concludes that Kessler's rim deterrence and relentless motor have been critical components of the Lakers' early-season success.