The Lakers’ offseason makeover has brought in plenty of new names, and Ziaire Williams is already sold on one of the biggest ones.
With Rob Pelinka busy reshaping the roster and LeBron James gone, Los Angeles brought in Walker Kessler via trade and then added Williams in free agency after his run with the Nets. At training camp, Williams was asked about Kessler, and his answer came with real conviction.
“I love Walker. He’s gonna be so good for us. Looked great his first game out.
“We got a lot of practice reps together. He’s great, man. As a defender who picks up full court and guards all these skilled and crafty cats, there’s nothing better than knowing you have a defensive anchor behind you that has your back at all times and is going to protect the rim for you.
“So we definitely need him.”
For Williams, it’s not just about liking what Kessler brings - it’s about how much easier life gets when there’s a rim protector waiting behind him. That kind of back line support matters for a player tasked with chasing and hounding guards and wings all over the floor.
He also made it clear that the Lakers’ goals reach far beyond a solid season. With Luka Doncic on the roster, Williams sees a team that should be aiming at the top.
“We’re expecting a high standard to win, go far, and hopefully win it all. But it takes day by day, one day at a time.”
After two seasons spent fighting for lottery position in Brooklyn, Williams sounds ready for a very different kind of pressure in Los Angeles.
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