Luka Doncic praised Walker Kessler’s immediate impact and the Los Angeles Lakers’ defensive improvement after their 127-105 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday night. Doncic finished with 28 points, eight rebounds and seven assists as the Lakers opened their season with a convincing win.
Kessler scored 26 points without missing a shot, going 12-for-12 from the field in his Lakers debut. Doncic was impressed by how quickly the two connected on the court.
“Very impressive game for him. I think he was 12 for 12, which is very impressive,” Doncic said. He also highlighted Kessler’s ability to read plays and respond to the defense.
“When I was driving, he stepped up. When I was double, he played in the pocket,” Doncic explained. “Very impressive game for him.”
The Lakers’ defense improved after allowing 33 points in the first quarter. Los Angeles held Golden State to 19 points in the second and 16 in the third, building a 102-68 lead before the final period.
Doncic said the team discussed its response after the opening quarter rather than overreacting to the early struggles.
“We just changed a couple of things and stuck to it. I think it was a great defensive effort,” he said.
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The Lakers also focused on limiting Stephen Curry’s movement without the ball. Doncic noted that Curry had found openings with backdoor cuts early in the game, and Los Angeles adjusted by staying more disciplined defensively.
“I think the main thing was just staying solid,” Doncic said. “I think we have a great potential defensively.”
Doncic also addressed his first-half buzzer-beater from beyond half court, which capped a 23-point opening half. He said he had worked extensively on those shots, while praising the opportunities Kessler created around the rim.
“Even if it looks easy, it’s not easy for sure,” Doncic said of the connection with his new teammate. He added that the Lakers had room to improve despite the strong debut. “That’s just the first game. I think our ceiling is even higher.”
The star guard also spoke about his place in the Lakers organization, calling it a great honor to lead one of the world’s biggest franchises.
“It’s very much an honor and just enjoy this moment,” Doncic said. He added that he hoped to remain in Los Angeles for a long time.
Doncic said he had been eager for the regular season to begin after the preseason, adding that he was simply happy to be back on the court playing meaningful games. The Lakers will face the Clippers on Friday.
