The job description for playing center with Luka Doncic is not difficult. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar needs someone to protect the paint on defense and operate as a pick-and-roll partner on offense. Deandre Ayton could not fully deliver on those requirements. Walker Kessler is ready to.
Kessler told the media at his first availability period: "Passing the ball, he's pretty good.
He draws, he has such a big presence on the court. It makes every guy, all four guys around him, it just makes it a lot easier for them to do what they need to do."
There was a notable gushing in Kessler's words when talking about playing with Doncic. The exuberance was tough to miss. The new Lakers center made sure everyone heard that he had a firm understanding of what it is that he needs to do.
Kessler talked about playing defense for Doncic. In reference to the job description above, that is a checkmark. The newly-signed big man also discussed setting screens and getting Luka some assists in the process. Check and check on being a willing pick-and-roll partner.
Walker ended his answer to the Luka question by hyping up his new point guard as a 'matchup nightmare' and expressed his excitement over how much fun was on its way. It is like all the Ayton-sized scars healed in one quick swoop.
Walker Kessler is going to do the Lakers job that Deandre Ayton struggled to
Ayton had the opportunity of a lifetime last season. After being bought out from the Portland Trail Blazers, all that was required in Los Angeles of the former first overall pick was exactly what Kessler was discussing above.
Despite that beautiful simplicity, Ayton often struggled. The defensive effort was typically inconsistent. As was his desire to come in and be a willing screen setter and roll guy. The former Lakers center wanted more than that.
Remember, this was the same guy who loudly exclaimed he was not Clint Capela. Ayton gave himself a reality check later in the season, but even after that, the results of his play remained mixed.
Kessler should provide a much more stable force of consistent defense, screening, and play finishing. The Lakers may even provide him with some pick-and-pop opportunities in the offense as well.
Ayton's job as a stopgap starting center is over. Considering he was never able to pivot that into a full-time Lakers future, the franchise was forced to push hard for Kessler's services. They should be adequately rewarded for that move on the court.
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