The Utah Jazz are looking for a breakthrough that would allow them to enjoy the privileges of being at the top tier after two straight seasons of disappointment. Because of that, they plan to make some changes to the roster this summer. The one who could be involved in the trade is Walker Kessler.
According to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, “There appears to be a wide range of starting-caliber big men available for trade…Rival teams believe Utah is willing to engage in trade talks that would part ways with Jazz second-year center Walker Kessler.”
Kessler started his NBA journey with the Grizzlies in 2022. However, before he could suit up for them, the Jazz came into the picture and acquired him. Following his landing in Utah, the 7-foot-1 center had to step into DPOY winner Rudy Gobert’s shoes.
As a rookie, he did a great job of averaging 9.2 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.3 blocks per game. With his decent shooting skills, he showed how he could manage at both ends.
However, his numbers dipped in the following season. From appearing in 74 games in the first season, he was down to 64 games this season. Likewise, his stats dropped to 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds and 2.4 per night.
Utah Jazz Eyeing Center in NBA Draft
With Kessler potentially heading towards the exit door, the obvious question springs up about the fix for the Jazz. Who will replace Kessler? The answer is right in front of us and that is the NBA Draft.
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The Utah Jazz have No.10, 29 and 32 picks in the 2024 NBA Draft. While the second-round draft can be used in a potential trade, the first-round picks can solve the problem with centers. Zach Edey of Purdue and Donovan Clingan of UConn were interviewed by the Jazz during the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago last month.
Apart from Utah, the Blazers are also interested in the 22-year-old. The Portland side has the 7th pick, so chances are Edey might end up with the Blazers. Donovan Clingan would become the prime target in that case.
Kessler’s exit might depend on how the franchise executes its draft plans, but as things stand, the exit will be the most likely outcome for the 22-year-old.
