Milwaukee Bucks 2022 NBA Draft Scouting Report: Walker Kessler

Milwaukee Bucks Draft Scouting Report: Walker Kessler – Outlook

Walker Kessler definitely could come in and be the future in the Brook Lopez role defensively for the Bucks. He has all the makings of the next great rim-protecting center in the NBA and could be just as good as Lopez at protecting the paint for years to come. His shot blocking numbers are incredible, and his combination of size and jumping ability is hard to come by. If the Bucks are looking for rim protection for the future, Kessler is likely the best prospect they could ask for.

However, although Kessler can play the Brook Lopez role defensively, it doesn’t appear that he can do what Lopez can do offensively. Brook Lopez has been able to knock down threes over the years and space the floor, but right now there is very little to suggest that Kessler will have that type of versatility on offense. He can be a good roll man and lob threat, but he does not provide the floor spacing that the Bucks need around Giannis Antetokounmpo.

If Walker Kessler had a more reliable outside shot or had more signs of being able to develop one, I would be more confident in him being the next Brook Lopez for the Bucks. Without that, though, it is difficult for me to see how he fits alongside Giannis offensively with how he will clog up the paint and be unable to space the floor. I love what he brings defensively, but the offensive fit is not there. If the Bucks do end up taking Kessler, it must mean that they are very confident in his ability to develop a 3-point shot.

Grade for Bucks: C

Stay tuned to see where Kessler lands in the 2022 NBA Draft.