Patryk Stachowiak
The Los Angeles Lakers have added size and rim protection to their roster, signing 7-foot center Kylor Kelley ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season. The move signals a clear intent to shore up their frontcourt rotation with a defensively-inclined big man known for elite shot-blocking.
Kelley, 27, split time last season between the New Orleans Pelicans and Dallas Mavericks. While his minutes were limited just 11.5 per game across 11 appearances he made a notable impact in his lone NBA start. On February 2 against Cleveland, Kelley registered a 12-point, 11-rebound double-double and added a block for good measure.
G League Defensive Specialist
It’s in the G League where Kelley has truly honed his craft. Over four seasons and 108 games with franchises like the South Bay Lakers, Maine Celtics, Raptors 905, and Austin Spurs, he averaged:
- 8.3 points
- 5.6 rebounds
- 2.0 blocks per game
Kylor Kelley. Source: bushnellbeacons.com
His 2024 stint with South Bay was particularly impressive Kelley averaged 11.5 points on 68.2% shooting, with 7.3 rebounds and a G League-best 2.4 blocks per game. That defensive dominance earned him a well-deserved spot on the 2024 NBA G League All-Defensive Team.
Defensive Pedigree from College to Pro
Kelley’s defensive identity was forged at Oregon State, where he averaged 3.5 blocks per game in his senior season good enough for back-to-back Pac-12 All-Defensive Team honors. Since then, he’s taken his game international, gaining experience in Canada, Denmark, and England.
For the Lakers, who struggled defensively in the paint last season, this low-risk, high-upside signing could pay off if Kelley translates his rim protection to the NBA level. His length, timing, and athleticism fit the archetype of a modern rotational big who can alter shots and anchor second-unit defense.
Is this the depth piece the Lakers need to solidify their defensive core? If Kelley performs like he did in South Bay, he might just be more than a bench filler.