Walker Kessler is embracing the challenge of stepping into a storied role as the Los Angeles Lakers’ new center, aware of the legacy left by some of the franchise’s most iconic big men. Each day at the team’s practice facility, Kessler observes a wall displaying the names and numbers of former Lakers centers who have made significant impacts on the NBA and secured their places in the Hall of Fame.

The wall features legendary players such as Pau Gasol (16), George Mikan (99), Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (33), Wilt Chamberlain (13), and Shaquille O’Neal (34). All of these players won championships while donning the Lakers jersey and have had their numbers retired by the franchise. Kessler, who wears No. 14, recognizes the weight of following in their footsteps but describes it as an opportunity rather than a burden.

“There’s a certain legacy that comes with being a Laker big,” Kessler said, reflecting on the tradition he is now part of. “But honestly, it’s just what an opportunity this is to play for a franchise that has had just historic bigs. I think that Lakers fans, when their bigs are at that level, they fall in love with them. So, what an opportunity.”

Kessler is set to make his regular-season debut as the Lakers open their campaign on Wednesday night against the Golden State Warriors at Crypto.com Arena. When asked about feeling the pressure to meet the high standards set by previous Lakers centers, Kessler noted that it depends on perspective.

“If you do look at it as an approach of, ‘Oh my gosh, I got to perform this certain way,’” he said. However, he implied that focusing on opportunity and development remains his primary mindset rather than succumbing to external expectations.

As Kessler embarks on his first season in Los Angeles, the Lakers and their fans will be watching closely to see if he can build upon the rich tradition of excellence established by the franchise’s historic centers.