Credit Getty Images via AFP - Scanpix
Aside from finally earning a shot at competitive and successful basketball, Collin Sexton is happy to join the Los Angeles Lakers upon reuniting with his former teammate.
Appearing on Mason & Ireland of ESPN LA, Sexton is thrilled to reconnect with Walker Kessler as new members of the Lakers.
“He’s one of my guys," Sexton said of Kessler. "I was talking to him even when we weren’t on the same team. I told him I’ve always got your back.
"I can’t wait to be back on the court with him.”
Play
Collin Sexton, Walker Kessler reunite in LA
Collin Sexton and Walker Kessler were teammates before joining the Los Angeles Lakers.
They played together for three seasons (2022–2025) on the Utah Jazz, serving as the team's young pieces after being acquired during the franchise's early rebuilding phase.
Sexton ultimately parted ways with Kessler in Salt Lake City after the Jazz dealt him to the Charlotte Hornets in last year's offseason.
As such, this offseason allowed them to hammer out a reunion through the Lakers. Kessler inked a four-year, $129.5 million contract with the team via a sign-and-trade from Utah, while Sexton joined LA on a two-year, $19.2 million deal.
Collin Sexton confident in Walker Kessler for the Lakers
Fully witnessing the big man's skill set during their time in Utah, Collin Sexton is confident in what Walker Kessler can bring to the table for the Los Angeles Lakers.
Expectations are high for Kessler as the Lakers' newest franchise center. He also has a lot to prove after playing just five games last NBA campaign due to a season-ending shoulder surgery in November.
"He’s going to have a huge impact, especially on the defensive end," Sexton said. "His presence, his rim protection, and even his offensive ability that he's been working on this summer.
"I’m super excited for him."