Walker Kessler Predicts Lakers Will Be 'Nasty Defensive Team' on Video Ahead of 2026-27 NBA Season

Los Angeles Lakers center Walker Kessler believes that the team will be one of the NBA's elite defensive units during the 2026-27 season.

"I think we're gonna be a nasty defensive team," Kessler told reporters Tuesday. "I'm just being honest, seeing these guys hound the ball on the perimeter."

"We're gonna be really good defensively," he added. "We have a lot of defensive tools."

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Los Angeles wasn't known for its ability to slow down opponents last year, ranking No. 20 among all teams with a 115.5 defensive rating (via NBA.com ).

While Lakers stars Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves aren't known for their defensive acumen, Kessler was one of several offseason additions that their front office made to improve as a two-way squad.

Kessler is entering his first season in Los Angeles after a four-year stint with the Utah Jazz, establishing himself as one of the league's top rim protectors. He owns a career average of 2.4 blocks per game.

While Kessler was limited to just five appearances last season due to shoulder surgery , he suited up in 58 games during his 2024-25 campaign.

That year, opponents shot just 49.0 percent from the field against him within six feet of the basket (via NBA.com ). It ranked No. 7 among all players to appear in at least 40 contests.

The Lakers will also be looking to improve their on-ball defense, attempting to do so by bringing active perimeters defenders such as Matisse Thybulle and Quentin Grimes into the mix.

Los Angeles will open its 2025-26 campaign against the Golden State Warriors on Oct. 21.