Lakers beat Clippers 125-117 with strong defense from Walker Kessler

The Los Angeles Lakers secured a 125-117 victory against the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday night, with Walker Kessler playing a key defensive role, according to the Daily Breeze, Daily News, and Whittier Daily News.

Kessler blocked six shots, more than any Laker had in a game last season, and helped the team force 25 turnovers. His defensive performance was described as an emphatic warning to the NBA’s top big men. Lakers coach JJ Redick noted Kessler was "everywhere" on the court.

Austin Reaves led the Lakers offensively with 28 points and nine assists, shooting efficiently despite a sloppy game from both teams. Kessler also contributed 22 points on 10-for-14 shooting, along with eight rebounds and three steals.

The Lakers led by as much as 15 points in the second half, but the Clippers narrowed the gap to six points with just over two minutes remaining. A fadeaway jumper from Reaves and Kessler’s sixth block helped the Lakers hold off the comeback attempt.

Kessler, a 7-foot-1 big man acquired in a sign-and-trade deal with the Utah Jazz in July, is under contract for $130 million over four years. He impressed in the season opener with 26 points on perfect shooting and has continued to demonstrate his defensive skills.

The Lakers improved to 2-0 on the season with the win over their city rivals, the Clippers.