New Los Angeles Lakers center Walker Kessler said his surgically repaired left shoulder is fully healed and stronger than it has ever felt, ending months of uncertainty about his availability for the upcoming season.
“It’s great. Feels better than it’s ever felt in my life,” Kessler told reporters during his first media session since finalizing a four-year, $130 million contract. “It’s been cleared. Feels strong, feels mobile.”
Background on the injury
The 23-year-old missed virtually all of last season, appearing in only five games for the Utah Jazz before undergoing surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. Kessler revealed the issue dated back to his college career and worsened early last year, prompting the operation.
He has not played in a competitive game since Oct. 31, 2024. “Sitting out a whole year definitely puts a lot of things in perspective,” he said. “I just want to go play to win.”
Sign-and-trade to Los Angeles
Los Angeles acquired Kessler from Utah in a sign-and-trade this offseason, viewing the 7-footer as a frontcourt complement to guards Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Multiple reports indicated Doncic strongly advocated for the move, which cost the Lakers draft capital along with the nine-figure contract commitment.
Kessler averaged 13.2 points, 10.1 rebounds and 2.9 blocks during his lone healthy season with the Jazz in 2023-24. The team hopes similar production—paired with a clean bill of health—will follow him to Los Angeles.
The Lakers open training camp next month, when Kessler is expected to participate without restrictions.
Source: Lakers Nation
