Los Angeles Lakers center Walker Kessler delivered a historic shooting performance in Wednesday night's 127-105 victory over the Golden State Warriors, earning a hilarious new nickname from franchise legend Shaquille O'Neal.

Kessler finished with 26 points, nine rebounds, two blocks and one assist while shooting a perfect 12-for-12 from the field in his Lakers regular-season debut.

His performance drew comparisons to NBA legend Wilt Chamberlain, prompting O'Neal to give the 25-year-old center a new nickname during ESPN's “Inside the NBA” postgame coverage.

“I got a new nickname for you… Your new nickname is Milk Chamberlain. I love you Milk,” O'Neal told Kessler.

The nickname references Chamberlain, who remains one of the most dominant centers in NBA history and spent the final five seasons of his career with the Lakers.

Shaq to Walker Kessler:

"Your new nickname is Milk Chamberlain. I love you Milk!" pic.twitter.com/NCfThXCv1C

— Oh No He Didn't 🤯 (@ohnohedidnt24) October 22, 2026

Walker Kessler makes Lakers history with perfect shooting performance

According to ESPN Insights, Chamberlain is the only Lakers player to make more field goals without a miss in a single game, accomplishing the feat with a 14-for-14 performance against the Detroit Pistons on March 11, 1969.

Kessler came within two made baskets of matching that mark while converting all 12 of his field-goal attempts against Golden State.

Article Continues Below

The center also made two of his four free throws, helping Los Angeles secure a convincing 22-point victory to open the 2026-27 season.

Kessler's impressive debut provided an encouraging start for the Lakers as they begin their first season following LeBron James' departure to the Philadelphia 76ers.

With Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves leading the backcourt, Kessler gives Los Angeles an interior presence capable of finishing around the basket, protecting the rim and contributing on the glass.

The Lakers (1-0) will look to build on their opening-night victory when they host the Los Angeles Clippers (1-0) on Friday at 7 p.m. PT.