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Lakers bolster defense with Quentin Grimes and Walker Kessler signing

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 21, 2026, 3:12 AM

Last updated Sep 21, 2026

Lakers bolster defense with Quentin Grimes and Walker Kessler signing

Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers are addressing defensive issues with the addition of Quentin Grimes and Walker Kessler. Head coach JJ Redick aims to implement a full-court pressing strategy utilizing Grimes, who has signed a four-year, $60 million deal. Last season, the team struggled defensively with a lack of rim protection, but Kessler, known for averaging 3.4 blocks per 36 minutes with the Utah Jazz, could enhance their defense. Analysts have mixed opinions on the Lakers' overall defensive capabilities, but Grimes remains optimistic about the team's potential to exceed expectations this season.

Source Links

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Market Watch

•Quentin Grimes and Walker Kessler join the Lakers.
•Grimes signed a four-year, $60 million contract.
•Kessler averaged 3.4 blocks per 36 minutes in Utah.
•Lakers struggled defensively last season without a rim protector.
•Analysts project varying outcomes for the Lakers' defense this season.

Latest Updates

3:12 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers Get Good News as New Signing Set to Take ‘Pressing’ Role

What they're saying

"
With Quentin Grimes and Walker Kessler on the roster, the Los Angeles Lakers may finally have good news on fixing their defensive issues. The post Lakers Get Good News as New Signing Set to Take ‘Pressing’ Role appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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