Walker Kessler Envisions Nasty Lakers Defense After Declaring 110% Health

Acquired via a four-year, $130-million sign-and-trade, Los Angeles Lakers center Walker Kessler declared he is "110%" healthy following a left shoulder labral tear that limited him to five games last season. Prior to injury, he averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks. Kessler is convinced the retooled Lakers have the personnel to build a "nasty defensive team" and contend in the Western Conference, with head coach JJ Redick planning to deploy him as the primary rim protector.