Walker Kessler returned to practice for the Lakers on Sunday

The Los Angeles Lakers have been plagued with injuries this preseason, with center Walker Kessler standing out due to his absence. Kessler injured his left pinky finger during a training camp practice and missed several days of practice. However, he made a return to practice on Sunday, according to Khobi Price of the California Post.

Kessler stated that his injury feels good and he is ready to play against the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday, though his status remains uncertain. The Lakers, without Kessler, have a 2-1 preseason record. They are currently dealing with various challenges, including a lack of defense against easy shots near the rim and on the boards.

These issues have been prevalent in recent seasons, even with the presence of Anthony Davis. In a significant move, the Lakers traded future first-round draft picks and two pick swaps to the Utah Jazz for Kessler. Standing at 7-foot-2, Kessler is an exceptional shot-blocker, rebounder, and solid lob threat, similar to the impact Luka Doncic has had alongside him.

Following their game against the Warriors on Tuesday, the Lakers will host the Denver Nuggets on Friday before starting their regular-season schedule on Wednesday, Oct. 21, against Golden State at home.