Kessler’s, what a debut! Wilt Chamberlain’s numbers: “I was nervous”
Walker Kessler makes his Lakers debut with 26 points on perfect 12-for-12 shooting. Then he opens up about the emotions of his first game in Los Angeles
Walker Kessler really couldn’t have asked for a better official debut with the Los Angeles Lakers. A 127-105 win over the Golden State Warriors, 26 points on perfect 12-for-12 shooting, 9 rebounds and 2 blocks. Not a bad first impression.
Those numbers put him alongside Wilt Chamberlain in Lakers history. As reported by ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel, Kessler is the franchise’s first player since 1969 to finish a game without missing a shot on at least 12 field goal attempts.
And to think he had more than a few butterflies before taking the court. Kessler admitted as much after the game:
I was definitely a little nervous before the game. I’m really happy and grateful for how things turned out
Walker Kessler
He also got plenty of help from Doncic and Reaves, who did an excellent job drawing the defense and finding him near the rim. Luka finished with 28 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists, while Reaves added 23 points and 6 assists.
To bring him to Los Angeles, the Lakers gave up two first-round picks and two pick swaps. A significant investment, but Kessler has already delivered an initial answer on the court. Sure, it’s only one game, but between his interior presence, rim protection and 12-for-12 shooting, it’s hard to imagine a better start. Next up is Friday’s crosstown matchup against the Clippers.