Walker Kessler said he is thankful to be healthy and back on the court after helping the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Los Angeles Clippers 125-117 on Friday night, improving to 2-0 to begin the season.
Kessler finished with 22 points, eight rebounds, six blocks and three steals, continuing his strong start after scoring 25 points on perfect shooting in his Lakers debut against Golden State. The center played only five games last season, making his early-season form particularly meaningful.
“Oh, it’s so much fun. It was definitely a tougher year for me, but God is faithful,” Kessler said after the win. “And just to be here now, I’m just so thankful. So thankful for this opportunity, so thankful to be healthy.”
Kessler also joked about his limited availability last season when asked about getting back on the court.
“Three more to beat my record, or four more, I guess. I think I’ll be able to make it. Knock on wood,” he said.
The 245year-old credited the Lakers’ unselfish approach for helping him regain his rhythm quickly.
“I think the way we’re playing, with how unselfish the guys are, it’s pretty easy to get back in rhythm, because we’re just competing to win,” Kessler said. “I think the rest of it kind of takes care of itself.”
Kessler praised Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, who combined for 51 points and 16 assists against the Clippers, for making it easier for him to fit into the offense.
“With guys like Luka and Austin, you can put anybody in with them and they’ll figure it out,” Kessler said. “All the credit goes to them. They’re incredible, incredible ballplayers.”
The center also highlighted the energy of his teammates, particularly Matisse Thybulle and Ziaire Williams, whose defensive activity helped disrupt the Clippers. Los Angeles forced 13 steals and capitalized on 25 Clippers turnovers.
“They’re just playing hard, man. It’s fun to watch and fun to compete with,” Kessler said of the Lakers’ defensive effort.
Kessler was more cautious when discussing his own defensive numbers, despite recording six blocks and three steals.
“I think they were pretty generous with the blocks. I don’t know if I really had six,” he said. “I definitely feel like I’m getting my rhythm back a little bit, but obviously it’s a long season. So, just trying to stay humble and stay hungry, and just keep trying to compete and win.”
The Lakers will visit the Utah Jazz on Sunday, giving Kessler an opportunity to face his former team.
