Los Angeles Lakers center Walker Kessler is nearing his preseason debut after jamming his left pinkie finger during training camp. The 7-foot-2, 245-pound center, acquired in a sign-and-trade with the Utah Jazz for a four-year, $130 million contract, returned to full practice Sunday. "Fully went today in practice, felt great," Kessler said, showing black tape on his finger. The Lakers are 2-1 in the preseason without him and have two games remaining: Tuesday against the Golden State Warriors in Las Vegas and Friday versus the Denver Nuggets.
Kessler missed most of the 2025-26 season after shoulder surgery and is eager to play. Coach JJ Redick remains cautious, saying, "We'll be smart with it," and has not confirmed if Kessler will play Tuesday. The team has dealt with injuries to Kessler, Ziaire Williams (foot), and Collin Sexton (leg), delaying lineup decisions. Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are named starters alongside Kessler, with Reaves expressing confidence in the team's depth.
Kessler praised the defense, highlighting Matisse Thybulle, Quentin Grimes, and others.
Source: ESPN NBA · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing