Lakers’ Walker Kessler surprised where he ranks in key statistical category

Walker Kessler was surprised to learn he ranked third in the NBA for blocks per game after recording four in the Los Angeles Lakers’ 116-103 win over Sacramento. His shot-blocking has helped make him the rim protector the Lakers sought, with opponents shooting less accurately near the basket when he is on court.

Victor Wembanyama leads the league with 4.5 blocks per game, while Milwaukee’s Myles Turner averages 2.8 and Kessler 2.7. Kessler has 24 blocks to Turner’s 22, but has played nine games to Turner’s eight, leaving Turner ahead on the per-game average; Wembanyama has led the category each season since entering the league in 2023.