Lakers training camp takeaways from first week loaded with surprises

The first week of Lakers’ training camp has passed. It has been a whirlwind of Purple-and-Gold-smeared optimism and excitement. Luka Doncic is ready to lead the Lakers back atop the league as the unequivocal head of the 17-time championship franchise. Austin Reaves wants to live up to his new four-year, $180 million contract.Walker Kessler is ready to run through walls.Here are our biggest takeaways from camp so far:If you asked any scout what the Lakers’ biggest hole was heading into the season, the response would’ve been unanimous: perimeter defense. Only, the players say that’s wildly incorrect. In fact, Lakers coach JJ Redick cut practice short Wednesday because the competition became so intense.

There are nine new players.There are two starting positions open alongside Doncic, Reaves and Kessler. And it’s obvious that those spots will be won by defensive effort. Kessler, who is the Lakers’ defensive anchor down low, has been impressed by what he has seen so far. “I think we’re going to be a nasty defensive team, I’m just being honest,” Kessler said.

“Just seeing these guys hound the ball on the perimeter.”Kessler said people “aren’t taking into account” how good the Lakers’ perimeter defense will be, adding that this roster has the intelligence and skill to surpass expectations.But one question in particular stumped Kessler.Who stood out?“I mean, Thi [Adou Thiero], Ziaire [Williams], Quentin [Grimes], Bull [Matisse Thybulle], Van [Jarred Vanderbilt], Jake [LaRavia] — I could go through the whole team,” he said.“Everyone’s got their own strengths, weaknesses.But I think that these guys are really good at not allowing their weaknesses to show and really focusing on their strengths, and [making] sure that’s what’s pushing them forward, especially on the defensive side.”It was obvious last season that the Lakers were heads and shoulders behind the top teams in the West, including the Thunder and Spurs. Th...