Kessler ranks third in blocks per game, behind Wembanyama and Turner

Walker Kessler said he was surprised to learn he ranked third in the NBA in blocked shots per game. The Lakers center had four blocks in a 116-103 win over the Kings in Sacramento on November 4, and entered November 5 averaging 2.7 per game.

Only San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama and Milwaukee’s Myles Turner had higher averages. Wembanyama was at 4.5 after recording eight blocks against Dallas on November 4, while Turner averaged 2.8.

Kessler initially expected to be second, with Wembanyama at the top. He was also surprised to hear Turner was ahead of him. Kessler had 24 blocks in nine games, compared with Turner’s 22 in eight; Turner’s higher average came from playing fewer games.

Kessler’s impact extends beyond blocks. Opponents shoot less often and less accurately near the rim when he is on the court, and he ranks among the league’s top seven in defensive field-goal percentage near the basket.

Wembanyama has led the NBA in blocks per game in each season since being selected first overall in 2023, making the top spot unlikely to change hands. The competition between Kessler and Turner for second place remains to be watched as the season continues.