Kessler returns to full Lakers practice, but Tuesday debut remains undecided

Walker Kessler returned to full participation in Lakers practice Sunday, moving closer to his first preseason appearance after a jammed left pinkie finger limited him during training camp.

The center said he felt good after the session, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. Coach JJ Redick nevertheless declined to commit to Kessler playing Tuesday against the Golden State Warriors in Las Vegas. The Lakers will assess how he feels Monday before making that decision.

Kessler injured the finger against the backboard while trying to block a shot during the opening days of camp. He has described the subsequent limits as precautionary. Sunday was his first full practice since those first two days, a change from participating in portions of workouts while remaining out of live action.

His post-practice interview addressed the finger, his return to full work and his eagerness to play after last season’s layoff.

The Lakers acquired Kessler from Utah in July for two future first-round picks and two future first-round pick swaps. He has yet to appear in their three preseason games. The remaining exhibition schedule gives Los Angeles two opportunities to see him in game action: Tuesday against Golden State and Friday at home against Denver.

Kessler’s absence has also extended the wait to evaluate the Lakers’ intended starting group. Redick has named Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves and Kessler as starters, but said he has not settled the full opening-night lineup. Injuries to Kessler, Ziaire Williams and Collin Sexton have limited how much that group can work together.

Williams has a left foot contusion and Sexton a right lower-leg issue, according to McMenamin’s report. Those circumstances have left Redick evaluating combinations while some expected rotation players remain unavailable. The report does not establish a return date for either player.

Redick expects some live play this week, while leaving the timing open. Sunday’s full workout alone does not confirm Kessler’s game availability; the next decision is whether he can play Tuesday.

Sources

ESPN: Kessler nears preseason debut after full practice · Official Kessler acquisition