Walker Kessler’s ‘brick wall’ promise will fire up Lakers fans

The Los Angeles Lakers acquired a new center this offseason after a sign-and-trade deal with the Utah Jazz for Walker Kessler. While there is plenty of time between now and the 2026-27 campaign, Kessler delivered a promise to L.A. that should get the fanbase fired up.

While fans are excited to see what the 24-year-old center brings to the table, Kessler is seemingly thrilled to be in Los Angeles. He claims that after seeing what the front office was willing to give up in the sign-and-trade with Utah, he feels inspired to perform to the best of his abilities for the franchise, according to Ben Golliver of ESPN.

“It makes you feel a certain way when you know an organization believes in you,” Kessler said. “With what [the Lakers] have invested, they’re showing that belief, in a monetary value. Not just with money, but in [draft] assets. If I know they have that belief in me, I’m going to run through a brick wall for them. That’s how I’ve been wired my whole life.”

The Lakers gave up four years’ worth of first-round picks to acquire Walker Kessler. More specifically, L.A. sent first-round pick swap rights in 2028 and 2030, along with unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, to the Jazz. The organization then gave the four-year veteran a four-year, $130 million contract.

It’s a huge investment from the Lakers’ franchise, but the club acquired an incredibly talented center who can lock down the interior, especially on defense. His rebounding skills should be a perfect fit for the frontcourt to assist with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves from the perimeter.

Kessler was limited to just five games last season after suffering a torn labrum in his left shoulder. He is expected to be fully healthy by the start of the upcoming campaign. In 201 career games in the NBA, the first-round pick is averaging 9.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 2.4 blocks per contest while shooting 68.1% from the floor and 26.6% from three-point range.

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