Overview
- Kessler has missed the Lakers’ first three preseason games after jamming a finger on a backboard in training camp and has not participated in live drills despite saying his finger is "good."
- Coach JJ Redick describes the injury as minor and day-to-day but declined to commit to Kessler playing in the next preseason game, saying the team wants to see him resume live practice first.
- With Kessler sidelined, the Lakers have turned to Kevon Looney and Sandro Mamukelashvili for center minutes, a rotation that has exposed shortfalls on the defensive glass in preseason play.
- The Lakers have two preseason games left before their Oct. 21 opener against the Golden State Warriors, and the missed live reps raise concerns about building on-court chemistry for a roster with many new pieces.
- Los Angeles surrendered significant draft capital to acquire Kessler and his recent season-ending labrum surgery increases the case for a cautious ramp-up and the possibility of adding a more reliable backup center if the absence continues.