The Los Angeles Lakers are banking on newly acquired center Walker Kessler to become a long-term defensive anchor, having signed the 22-year-old to a four-year, $130 million contract after a sign-and-trade deal with the Utah Jazz that also cost multiple draft assets.
To ease Kessler’s transition, the front office also brought in his longtime friend and former Jazz teammate Collin Sexton on a two-year agreement. Speaking at the team facility, Sexton outlined why he believes Kessler will thrive in Los Angeles.
“I would say his mindset … being able to come in and give it his all each and every night. He’s one of those people that’s very competitive,” Sexton said. “The culture here is trying to bring good guys in who are ready to compete each and every night and give it their all.”
Sexton noted that his connection with Kessler stretches back to their shared roots in Atlanta and their four years as teammates. “Even yesterday when we were doing the 3-on-3, we still locked in, so it’s cool,” he added.
The Lakers view Kessler as an ideal frontcourt partner for their backcourt stars Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, hoping his rim protection and intensity will help establish the foundation of a revamped roster. Sexton’s own reputation for relentless play is expected to complement that approach as the franchise seeks to build chemistry among several new arrivals.
Asked why he chose Los Angeles in free agency despite interest from other teams, Sexton pointed to the chance for a significant role. “It was about the opportunity to play and compete at a high level,” he said.
Source: Lakers Nation
