Austin Reaves Welcomes Walker Kessler After Lakers-Jazz Sign-and-Trade
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The Los Angeles Lakers’ headline move of the offseason was a sign-and-trade with the Utah Jazz that brought center Walker Kessler to California at the cost of most of the club’s remaining draft assets. The front office views the 22-year-old as the long-term interior partner for Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Reaves and Kessler previously shared the court with Team USA at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, giving the guard an early look at his new teammate’s personality and game.
“He’s a big, goofy dude that just enjoys life and has fun,” Reaves told reporters during a recent media session. “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.”
The Role Kessler Fills
Kessler arrives as the defensive anchor the Lakers lacked last season. The 7-footer ranks among the NBA’s top rim protectors and offensive rebounders, traits expected to create extra possessions and shore up interior defense. Offensively, his rim-running ability should mesh with Doncic’s and Reaves’ proficiency in the pick-and-roll, setting up high-percentage looks at the basket.
Roster Overhaul Continues
The deal is part of a broader roster makeover aimed at building around Doncic’s playmaking. While Los Angeles acknowledges it is still a step away from firm championship contention, the organization sees Kessler as a foundational piece for that pursuit—and Reaves is eager to start the partnership.
Reaves vs. Doncic—Off the Court
The locker-room chemistry extends beyond the new center. Reaves, whose friendly rivalry with Doncic has become one of the NBA’s more talked-about bromances, joked that he beats the Slovenian star “at everything other than basketball,” underscoring the team’s competitive spirit heading into training camp.
Los Angeles opens preseason play next month, when Kessler will don the purple and gold for the first time.
Source: Lakers Nation
