Orthopedic Expert Addresses Concerns Over Walker Kessler's Injury Down the Line: "Not Going to Lose

Orthopedic Expert Addresses Concerns Over Walker Kessler's Injury Down the Line: "Not Going to Lose focuses on medical commentary and the basketball outlook for Walker Kessler after a left shoulder injury. The article cites orthopedic surgeon Dr. Robert Klapper, who explains that recovery should allow scar tissue from a labral repair, then proceed through range of motion before strengthening. It argues Kessler’s injury—treated as an upper-extremity issue—should not cost aerobic conditioning. Before the setback ended his 2025-26 run in November 2025, Utah Jazz said the center would miss the rest of the season and undergo shoulder surgery in Los Angeles to repair a labral tear. The article reports that Kessler averaged 14.4 points on 70.3% shooting, 10.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks, including 6-for-8 from deep. It adds that Utah traded him to the Los Angeles Lakers in a sign-and-trade Wednesday, and he agreed to a four-year, $130 million deal, after appearing in 201 games with career averages of 9.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists.