Lakers have a need and want, but the chances of finding it are low image
The Los Angeles Lakers made their one big move of the offseason by landing Walker Kessler, an All-Rookie selection back in 2022-23. Kessler has been a very good player throughout his career, and sneakily, does some things that people aren't even talking about.
His shot-blocking has been obvious throughout the first four seasons of his career, averaging 2.4 per game.
He's also an excellent offensive rebounder, leading the league with 4.6 per game in 2024-25. In 2025-26, he didn't lead the league, but he still averaged 4.6 offensive rebounds per game.
That alone will help the Lakers make a big offensive impact, though the argument is that he's a much better defender than an offensive player.
For Los Angeles, which also landed Kevon Looney and Sandro Mamukelashvili, it's fair to say the team needs to improve defensively behind Kessler.
Unfortunately, it doesn't sound like that's going to be easy to do. Per the latest report, that's one of the biggest concerns as the Lakers approach the trade deadline over the next couple of months.
“I think the goal for the Lakers ahead of the trade deadline should be to acquire the type of big that can’t — it’s not going to replicate what Kessler does — but can you at least be closer to the Kessler side of the ledger than what Mamu and Kevon Looney do defensively?” Jovan Buha said, H/T Heavy.
A lot has to play out over the next few months, since the regular season hasn't even started yet. The Lakers seem to be in a pretty good position right now to find wins.
However, if Los Angeles isn't careful with its center situation, especially with Looney and Mamukelashvili, the team will face concerns in that regard.
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