What was the alternative that would have been anywhere near as effective and rewarding for the Lakers? The only options who fit that description were Kessler and Jalen Duren, both of whom were restricted free agents. Paying up for Walker Kessler beats the alternative of Mitchell RobinsonWith all due respect to Robinson, the former Knicks champion is nowhere near as impactful of a player as Kessler. This is a clear situation where the Lakers get thrown under the spotlight one way or the other. Even with the center depth lacking behind Kessler, he alone delivers much more upside at the position than the alternative.