Walker Kessler ready to run through a brick wall for Lakers

LAS VEGAS — It’s no secret how badly the Lakers wanted – and needed – Walker Kessler.It’s reflected in not just what various Lakers have said about Kessler since acquiring him from the Jazz in a sign-and-trade.But also their actions and what the franchise invested to bring the 7-foot-2 big man to L.A.to fill their biggest need entering the offseason. Two of their unprotected first-round picks (2031 and 2033), which were the last two first-rounders they had full control over to trade.Two first-round pick swaps in 2028 and 2030. In addition to the four-year, $130 million contract Kessler signed with the franchise that starts with a salary of $30.1 million for 2026-27, which makes him the 10th-highest paid center in the league (restricted free agent big man Jalen Duren’s 2026-27 salary from his contract will likely surpass Kessler’s). A significant investment for a player who hasn’t made an All-Star, All-NBA or All-Defense team, and is coming off of playing five games after having left shoulder surgery in November. Kessler is honored by the investment.

And ready to prove the Lakers right. “It definitely makes you feel a certain way when you know an organization believes in you,” Kessler said on Monday during his first media availability since joining the Lakers.“And I think what they’ve invested, they’re showing that belief in a monetary value, not just with money, but like you said, assets.

And for me, I’m somebody that if I know that they have that belief in me, I’m gonna run through a brick wall for them.That’s just how I’ve been wired my whole life and it definitely makes it a lot easier to go out there and compete for a team.”A significant advocate for Kessler in the Lakers’ pursuit of the 24-year-old center was franchise superstar guard Luka Doncic. Doncic made it clear entering the offseason he wanted the Lakers to acquire a high-level center who fits into the archetype he usually thrives alongside: A lob-catcher, r...