Walker Kessler made a memorable Los Angeles Lakers debut, scoring 26 points without missing a shot in Wednesday’s 127-105 victory over the Golden State Warriors. After going 12-for-12 from the field and grabbing nine rebounds, the center credited his teammates’ vision and explained how his approach helped him make an immediate impact.
“I’m extremely thankful,” Kessler said. “Playing with the guys we have on our team, I wish I could say it was really difficult, but they’re just so good. Their court vision is insane.”
Kessler highlighted how Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves found him in positions to use his size around the basket. He said playing alongside passers of that caliber requires him to stay alert throughout each possession.
“Just be ready to catch the ball,” Kessler said. “It can come at any point.”
That awareness was particularly important on a third-quarter play when Doncic delivered a behind-the-back pass for a dunk. Kessler recalled running behind the play and calling Doncic’s name before the ball arrived.
“He’s just smart. He’s wicked smart. His basketball IQ is crazy,” Kessler said.
The center also credited his constant movement for keeping him involved offensively. Asked about his activity on the court, he joked about his approach despite his name.
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“Contrary to my name, I run a lot,” Kessler said. “When I run, it keeps me engaged in the game.”
Kessler said running the floor can create opportunities for rebounds and putbacks while opening space for perimeter shooters. He also described his mindset around the basket as simple: “The biggest thing is having the attitude and mentality to try to dunk everything.”
The Lakers’ defensive performance improved significantly after halftime. Following a first quarter in which Golden State scored 33 points, Los Angeles held the Warriors to 19 in the second and 16 in the third.
Kessler said head coach JJ Redick emphasized cleaning up the backdoor cuts at halftime and challenged him to apply more pressure to the ball.
“Draymond was picking us apart a little bit. So that’s on me,” Kessler said, referring to Warriors forward Draymond Green. “We looked like the defensive team that I know we can be in the second half.”
Kessler admitted he was nervous before his first game with the Lakers but was grateful for the result.
“I got the win, which is the most important thing,” he said.
He also reflected on learning to handle the pressure that comes with playing in Los Angeles, explaining that gratitude has helped him focus on the opportunity rather than outside criticism.
“God is so good in my life for me to be here. It’s all glory to him,” Kessler said. “When you count your blessings and give thanksgiving, it’s really hard to focus on the negativity when you actively do that.”
The Lakers next face the Clippers on Friday.
