Overview
- Walker Kessler jammed a finger during training-camp work and has missed the first three preseason games while moving through team medical protocols.
- Kessler and coach JJ Redick have called the injury not concerning, but Redick stopped short of committing to Kessler playing in the next preseason game after the center practiced without doing live drills.
- With Kessler absent the Lakers have alternated Kevon Looney and Sandro Mamukelashvili at center, giving those players significant minutes and forcing the staff to test non-Kessler lineups.
- Reporters and commentators note the limited backup-center depth and have floated low-cost trade or waiver options, but roster limits and the preseason calendar make quick external fixes difficult.
- Kessler’s recent torn-labrum history and the Oct. 21 regular-season opener raise the stakes: the team needs game reps to build chemistry, and the next two preseason games are the last clear chance to get them.