NBA4d ago
Kessler Delivers Strong Showing in Lakers Preseason Opener
The center posted 11 points and nine rebounds in limited minutes during a 101-89 loss to the Warriors.
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Limited Minutes Yield Big Results
Walker Kessler finished with 11 points on 4-for-6 shooting along with nine rebounds, one block and one steal. He saw action only in the first half of the 101-89 defeat. In his 16 minutes on the floor the Lakers outscored the Warriors by 15 points.
Long Road Back to the Court
It marked Kessler's first game in 347 days after he underwent surgery last November to repair a torn labrum. A sign-and-trade brought him to Los Angeles on a four-year, $130 million deal that included two future first-round picks and two pick swaps. He missed the first three preseason games after jamming his left pinkie but returned in time to play two exhibition contests before the regular season starts on Oct. 22.
Emphasis on Relentless Play
The five-year veteran stressed a nonstop approach on both ends, including crashing the boards and protecting the paint. Teammates noted his rim protection and ability to generate open three-point looks through hard rolls. The Lakers played without five players, which placed even greater weight on Kessler's presence inside.
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