The Los Angeles Lakers moved mountains to acquire Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz. They not only signed him to a lucrative four-year, $130 million contract, but included two unprotected first-round draft picks and two pick swaps in the sign-and-trade to acquire him.
The Lakers' willingness to do just about anything it took to acquire Kessler has sparked a commitment to reciprocation that he's wielding as his greatest weapon.
Los Angeles' offseason overhaul has recreated its rotation and redefined its itentity as a team. It parted with six of its top nine players in minutes per game and invested in a new cast of contributors who better fit how they want to build around Luka Doncic. Based on cost, Kessler appeared to be their most coveted target.
During his first interview as a member of the Lakers, Kessler explained that the lengths Los Angeles went to in order to acquire him has not only made him feel wanted, but has him ready to "run through a brick wall" for the purple and gold.
For those who can't access the video, Kessler said the following:
"It makes you feel a certain way when you know an organization believes in you. With what [the Lakers] have invested, they're showing that belief in a monetary value. Not just with money, but [draft] assets. For me, I'm somebody that, if I know they have that belief in me, then I'm going to run through a brick wall for them. That's how I've been wired my whole life. It definitely makes it a lot easier to go out and compete for a team."
Considering Kessler's role is that of a defensive anchor and rebounding specialist, that's the exact quote that Lakers fans should have been waiting to here.
Walker Kessler: "I’m going to run through a brick wall for [the Lakers]"
Kessler is already one of the most promising young big men in the NBA. Through four seasons, he boasts career averages of 9.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, 3.4 offensive rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 2.4 blocks in 25.3 minutes per game.
Those numbers translate to marks of 13.5 points, 13.2 rebounds, 4.8 offensive boards, 1.7 assists, and 3.4 blocks per 36 minutes.
An elite shot-blocker and offensive rebounder, effort is already an essential element of Kessler's success as a player. The fact that he's now found even greater motivation to go all-out on either end of the floor offers even more reason for intrigue.
The Lakers therefore not only acquired one of the most imposing interior presences in the Association, but a player who's willing to do whatever it takes to reward the front office's faith.
That's even more compelling when one considers that Kessler's primary job as the interior anchor will be setting the tone for the Lakers on defense. If the 7'2" Goliath in the paint is going all-out, then a simple question will permeate the rest of the rotation: How can another player justify not doing the same?
Acquiring Kessler certainly cost a pretty penny, but his response to the investment has strengthened the optimistic belief that it will prove worthwhile.
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