Austin Reaves praised Walker Kessler's defense, intelligence, and personality as the Lakers prepare to integrate their major offseason addition.
Austin Reaves is looking forward to reuniting with Walker Kessler after the Los Angeles Lakers made the center one of the cornerstones of their reshaped roster.
Walker Kessler
Position C
Age 24
Height 213 cm
Weight 111 kg
Birth place Atlanta, United States of America
Reaves and Kessler previously played together for Team USA at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, giving the Lakers guard some familiarity with both the player and person joining him in Los Angeles.
"He's a big, goofy dude that just enjoys life and has fun," Reaves said during a media availability via Lakers Nation.
"Obviously, you see what he does basketball-wise, how he impacts the game. He's good defensively, good in the pocket and just a smart player. Happy to have him on the team and get to work."
Lakers make major investment in Kessler
The Lakers acquired Kessler from the Utah Jazz in a sign-and-trade, sending Utah unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, along with first-round pick swaps in 2028 and 2030.
The 24-year-old center subsequently agreed to a four-year, $130 million contract with Los Angeles.
Kessler appeared in only five games last season before a left shoulder labral tear ended his campaign. Before the injury, he averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 1.8 blocks while shooting 70.3% from the field.
During the 2024-25 season, the 2.18-meter big man posted 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks across 58 appearances for Utah.
Kessler is expected to provide the Lakers with rim protection, rebounding, and a reliable pick-and-roll partner for Reaves and Luka Doncic. His ability to finish around the basket and make decisions after receiving the ball in the pocket could also give Los Angeles another dimension offensively.
The Lakers' investment indicates that they view Kessler as a central part of their new core alongside Doncic and Reaves following LeBron James' departure.
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