Walker Kessler Matches Wilt Chamberlain Record in Lakers Debut

The Los Angeles Lakers have championship aspirations this season and got off to a hot start in their opener, winning 127-105 over the Golden State Warriors. While Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves will always be the team's headliners, their newest addition stole the show on opening night.

Walker Kessler, the Lakers' big offseason trade acquisition, put together a historic performance in his Lakers debut. Kessler scored 26 points in his first outing in Los Angeles, but it was the efficiency that made it special.

He went 12-of-12 from the field to go along with nine rebounds and two blocks, and in the process, he accomplished something that hadn't been done by a Lakers player for more than 50 years.

Walker Kessler Matches Wilt Chamberlain's Historic Feat

Kessler became the first Lakers player since Wilt Chamberlain in 1969 to shoot 100% from the field while attempting at least 12 shots.

Given Chamberlain's status among the league's all-time greats, that's great company to be in, especially in a debut game. And while Kessler isn't known for being a high-volume scorer, when you're that efficient around the basket, you don't need many shots to make a big impact.

With Doncic and Reaves in the backcourt and drawing the defense, he should have plenty of opportunities to be a play finisher, especially with Doncic's passing ability.

Lakers Already Seeing Returns on Kessler Investment

To acquire Kessler from the Utah Jazz in a sign-and-trade deal this summer, the Lakers not only had to give up significant draft capital but also had to sign him to a four-year, $130 million contract.

While the fit on paper appeared to be a good one, his debut showed just how well he can complement this roster.

It's a significant upgrade for Los Angeles because he's a legitimate rim protector, great rebounder and interior play finisher, which is exactly the type of player Doncic thrives with. And again, with the Lakers having championship aspirations, this was just one game, but Kessler appears to be a phenomenal addition for them.