Robert Horry believes Walker Kessler, rather than Luka Dončić or Austin Reaves, could ultimately become the most important piece of the Lakers’ championship pursuit this season.

Los Angeles made major changes around Dončić during the offseason, with Kessler emerging as the centerpiece of those moves.

Horry is particularly intrigued by the center’s combination of rim protection and offensive versatility, although his health remains a concern after a torn labrum cut his previous season short.

“When you watch what Walker Kessler brings to the game, he’s so incredibly skilled and we haven’t had a big since AD that can block shots like that, pop out for threes,” Horry said. “So I just hope he stays healthy – Him missing damn near all season, how much rust has he developed?”

Before the injury, Kessler had established himself as one of the NBA’s more productive young centers. In 2024-25, he averaged career highs of 12.2 rebounds, 2.4 blocks and 1.7 assists while adding 11.1 points per game.

For Horry, Kessler’s impact could be even more significant than that of the Lakers’ established offensive stars.

“So it’s going to be really interesting to see what he can do because he is the key. Not Luka, not AR, he is,” Horry said.

Adding a quality big man had been one of Dončić’s priorities entering the offseason, and Los Angeles eventually acquired Kessler from the Utah Jazz in a sign-and-trade.

The Lakers surrendered two unprotected future first-round picks and two first-round pick swaps while giving the center a four-year, $130 million contract.