How a healthy and motivated Walker Kessler could transform the Lakers' defense

"[I] just feel like I can fully live up to my defensive potential," Thybulle said Monday at Lakers media day, "because of having a rim protector like Walker."

Just as Kessler is expected to lift the Lakers' offense by pairing with Luka Doncic , the Lakers are equally excited for the influence Kessler can have on defense. The 7-foot-2 center is the type of rim-protecting force that can unlock a new scheme and elevate his teammates as the Lakers compete in a top-heavy Western Conference.

Coach JJ Redick said the Lakers' tendency to switch on defense in recent years was "by necessity." The Lakers, with the inconsistent Deandre Ayton at center, ranked 20th in defensive rating last season with just 4.3 blocks per game. Their 41 rebounds per game ranked 27th.