The pattern of physical issues has been Walker Kessler’s greatest Achilles’ heel in recent years. After watching him play only five games across the entire 2025-26 season, more than a few Los Angeles Lakers fans cast a wary eye at the big bet the Lakers made in the summer to acquire the center, a sentiment that has not faded as the preseason gets underway.
Seeing the former Jazz man miss the first three games because of a finger injury, concerns about his availability swirled around the team. But when asked about it, J.J. Redick stepped in to dispel those worries quickly.
“We’re not worried. He will get minutes in the preseason.”
The confirmation that Kessler will be ready not only for the season opener but for the preseason contests provides additional reassurance, suggesting the Lakers are simply proceeding with caution. We’ll see if this issue resurfaces during the regular season, but based on his coach’s remarks, the center is doing fine. And his debut in his new colors is approaching quickly.
Indeed, after beating Sacramento 114-110 early this morning, Redick’s club now has just two scrimmages left before the 2026-27 season kicks off. The first of the two will take place against the Warriors on a trip to Las Vegas, while three days later they will host the Nuggets to finalize their preparations. Now the question remains: will Kessler be in both games or only in one?
