Walker Kessler Struggles Emotionally in Return to Utah as Lakers Secure Comeback Win

In Salt Lake City, Walker Kessler experienced a deeply emotional return to the Delta Center for his first game since departing the Utah Jazz.

Kessler acknowledged that his emotions overwhelmed him prior to the Los Angeles Lakers’ comeback victory against the Jazz on Sunday.

Prior to this game, Kessler had emerged as one of the league’s premier big men, averaging 24 points on 84% shooting, 8.5 rebounds, and 4 blocks through the first two games.

However, the 7-foot-2 center struggled in his return to Utah, recording more fouls (four) than points (two) during 28 minutes of play.

He secured seven rebounds but shot only 1-of-2 from the field and provided minimal rim protection with just one blocked shot.

“Definitely let my emotions get the best of me,” Kessler said. “But you gotta learn those moments and move on.”

Fortunately for Kessler, his teammates compensated, with Luka Doncic leading the Lakers with 52 points, 10 assists, and 8 rebounds to secure the win.

Austin Reaves contributed an efficient 29 points on 7-of-12 shooting, including 11-of-13 from the free-throw line, as five Lakers players reached double figures.

“I’m just glad we got the win,” Kessler said. “I mean, I’ve got a lot of thanks to give to my teammates, I mean, all of them. They all played their roles and did a great job, even though it wasn’t my best night. So I really, really appreciated them.”

Selected 22nd overall in the 2022 NBA draft, Kessler spent his initial four seasons with the Utah Jazz.

He played a key role in the Jazz’s rebuild following the trade of All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell to the Cavaliers in the 2022 offseason. The Lakers acquired Kessler via a sign-and-trade deal with the Jazz in July.

The deal featured a four-year, $130 million contract for Kessler, with the Lakers sending unprotected first-round draft picks in 2031 and 2033, along with first-round swaps in 2028 and 2030, to the Jazz.

The former Auburn University player felt the emotional weight as he arrived at the arena that was once his home court.

“Obviously Utah was the first four years of my career,” Kessler said. “It’s a special place for me. Kind of jumpstarted my career, a lot of good memories. Just letting my emotions get the best of me and kind of hype myself up more than I usually do and kind of got too amped.

“And then just couldn’t find the ball, couldn’t find the rhythm, just kind of was off a couple fouls that were tough, a couple blocks I usually [make] – it’s one of those nights. But fortunately basketball is not a one-man sport. I’ve got really good teammates and I’m very thankful.”

Despite Kessler’s lackluster performance, the Lakers improved to 3-0 on the season after overcoming an 18-point deficit.

“He didn’t have the best game,” Reaves said. “But for him to not have a good game and us still get a win shows the versatility of our team.”

Kessler was pleased to have his first return game behind him so early in the season.

“I knew I’d have some emotions naturally just because it’s my first place I ever played,” he said. “But yeah, definitely good to get out of the way and be excited for next time we play them.”

Source link