<\/p>\n
The Lakers have Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, but Robert Horry believes another player will ultimately determine how far they go this season.<\/p>\n
Walker Kessler.<\/p>\n
The three-time Lakers champion has named Los Angeles\u2019 newest big man as the team\u2019s biggest difference-maker heading into the 2026-27 season, even placing his importance above Doncic and Reaves.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen you watch what Walker Kessler brings to the game, he\u2019s so incredibly skilled and we haven\u2019t had a big since AD that can block shots like that, pop out for threes,\u201d Horry said<\/a>. \u201cSo I just hope he stays healthy \u2014 Him missing damn near all season, how much rust has he developed?\u201d<\/p>\n Kessler arrived in Los Angeles this offseason after the Lakers acquired him from the Utah Jazz in a sign-and-trade deal. Los Angeles gave up two unprotected future first-round picks and two first-round pick swaps in the move, while Kessler landed a four-year, $130 million extension.<\/p>\n It\u2019s a major investment, but Horry believes the 25-year-old could be the piece that unlocks the Lakers.<\/p>\n \u201cSo it\u2019s going to be really interesting to see what he can do because he is the key,\u201d Horry said. \u201cNot Luka, not AR, he is.\u201d<\/p>\n Kessler had already established himself as one of the league\u2019s most productive young centers before injuries disrupted his 2025-26 campaign.<\/p>\n During the previous season, he averaged career highs of 12.2 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game while adding 11.1 points and 1.7 assists. He was producing at a similar level last season before suffering a torn labrum that brought his year to an early end.<\/p>\n His arrival also addresses one of Doncic\u2019s biggest requests following last season.<\/p>\n Doncic made it clear he wanted the Lakers to add a big man during the offseason, and the front office responded by making Kessler one of its biggest investments.<\/p>\n Los Angeles is now preparing to begin a new era following LeBron James\u2019 departure, with Doncic taking over as the face of the franchise and Reaves remaining alongside him.<\/p>\n But despite all the attention surrounding that backcourt duo, Horry believes Kessler\u2019s health and production could ultimately decide whether the Lakers become legitimate championship contenders.<\/p>\n For a franchise chasing its 18th title, Horry sees the new big man as the key.<\/p>\n