League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Lakers face depth concerns with Kessler's health ahead of new season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 26, 2026, 2:15 AM

Last updated Sep 26, 2026

Lakers face depth concerns with Kessler's health ahead of new season

Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers are entering the new NBA season with concerns centered on depth and health, particularly regarding center Walker Kessler. Following a risky offseason, the team has lost key players like LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Luke Kennard. Lakers insider Jovan Buha pointed out that if Kessler, who struggled with injuries last season, can't stay healthy, the team's defense could suffer significantly. The Lakers have invested in younger talent around Luka Doncic but may lack sufficient rim protection without a reliable backup center. They aim to develop chemistry early to compete in a competitive Western Conference.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Lakers lost significant players including LeBron James and Rui Hachimura.
•Walker Kessler's health is a major concern for team defense.
•Lakers opted for young talent, raising questions about overall depth.
•Team must build chemistry quickly to contend in the West.

Latest Updates

2:15 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers Insider Reveals Biggest Problem Entering This Season

What they're saying

"
The Los Angeles Lakers are hoping that the risky offseason of controversial moves will work out behind Luka Doncic as the top star. Losing talents like LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Luke Kennard is not a good thing for any NBA team. However, the Lakers decided to invest in younger talents that they believe fit […] The post Lakers Insider Reveals Biggest Problem Entering This Season appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Los Angeles Lakers Oklahoma City Thunder Utah Jazz NBA Basketball