Los Angeles Lakers Monitor Backup Center Market Following Walker Kessler Trade
The Los Angeles Lakers added former Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler during the offseason to reshape their frontcourt rotation alongside Luka Doncic. Kessler delivered 26 points, going 12-for-12 from the field with nine rebounds and two blocks across 30 minutes in a 127-105 season-opening win against the Golden State Warriors, CBS Sports reported. Despite that strong debut, the team is actively monitoring the market for additional frontcourt help because depth behind Kessler remains thin.
Lakers seek backup center to support Kessler
The Lakers currently lack a reliable backup center to shoulder minutes behind Kessler during the regular season. The Lakers are still monitoring the market for big men, team sources told The Athletic,
reporter Dan Woike noted. Los Angeles acquired Kessler and signed Kevon Looney to play center, while Mamukelashvili can also handle the position. Team sources indicate the front office could address the roster via trade or a signing, though the team sits at full capacity.
Lakers Nation analyst Daniel Starkand highlighted the workload issue, writing that the franchise needs to find a capable backup so they don’t run Walker into the ground in the regular season.
Kessler missed the entirety of the previous season due to a labrum injury after appearing in just five games. While the young center wants maximum playing time, managing his minutes across a long season remains a priority for the coaching staff.
This isn't an original thought, but the Lakers really need to find a capable backup center so they don't run Walker into the ground in the regular season.
Walker Kessler scores 26 points in Lakers debut
What were Walker Kessler’s stats in his Lakers debut?
Kessler scored 26 points on 12-of-12 shooting from the field, making two of four free throws while adding nine rebounds, one assist, and two blocks in 30 minutes of play against the Golden State Warriors.
Which other players are currently options at center for Los Angeles?
The Lakers feature Kevon Looney and Mamukelashvili alongside Kessler in the frontcourt rotation, while the front office explores potential external additions through trades or free agency.
More on Walker Kessler
WALKER KESSLER WENT 12-12 IN HIS LAKERS DEBUT 🤯He had 10 DUNKS… the most by a Laker since Shaq in 2003! pic.twitter.com/i7KWBrC9f6
Walker Kessler on if his Lakers debut lived up to the expectations:"Yeah, I would say it did. It was awesome. Got the win, which was the most important thing. Definitely was nervous going into the game, but I'm so thankful."
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