Robert Horry identifies Walker Kessler as the Lakers’ key to success

Former Lakers player Robert Horry has identified center Walker Kessler as the most critical component for the team's upcoming campaign. Following a roster overhaul, the organization added Kessler to provide defensive stability alongside primary offensive contributors Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Horry emphasized that Kessler's ability to protect the rim and contribute offensively is essential for the team, provided the center can remain healthy after missing nearly all of last season. The Lakers secured Kessler with a four-year, $129.47 million extension earlier this offseason to address long-standing needs in the frontcourt. While Doncic and Reaves remain central figures in the rotation, Horry contends that Kessler’s defensive impact represents the true difference-maker for the franchise's championship pursuits. The team now turns its attention to integrating the big man into the starting lineup after his extended absence from regular-season play.

• 9:24 PMYahoo Sports — Former Lakers star names player more important to the team’s success than Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves