When the Utah Jazz signed Jar Jackson Jr. took over, many were especially excited to see what the combination of him and Walker Kessler will look like when Utah is back to full strength. The only problem is that such a connection won’t happen until Kessler signs his name on the dotted line this summer.
It seems like a given that the Jazz will re-sign their blossoming center this offseason. However, ESPN’s TIm MacMahon revealed on “The Hoop Collective” that things won’t be that simple between the two sides.
“Walker Kessler’s restricted free agency is not going to be a fun and enjoyable experience,” MacMahon said. “…(The Jazz) have a number in mind for Walker Kessler, and Walker and his representation have a much bigger number in mind… It will be very interesting to see if Walker can get the kind of offer that will test the Jazz.
“…The Jazz will tell you vehemently that Walker Kessler is part of their core going forward. I’m just going to caution that we’ll have to wait and see how the summer goes until we know for sure.”
The Jazz have the inside track on Kessler because his free agency is limited. However, that doesn’t mean there won’t be a team that can’t make Utah sweat if they give Kessler the money he wants.
After trading for JJJ, it’s clearly in the Jazz’s best interest to pair him with Kessler. However, this duo working together will all depend on whether the parties can agree on whether the price is right.
For what it’s worth, it seems like both players are thrilled to play with each other whenever they get the chance.
new faces have entered the chat 💜
let’s get it 🤝 pic.twitter.com/Cxtn0gxV4T
— Utah Jazz (@utahjazz) February 6, 2026
However, Kessler’s suitors are dropping like flies
Kessler absolutely has the right to play the long game with the Jazz. He may not be a star per se, but he is a very impactful player who is not easy to replace. Unfortunately, he lost a lot of influence, and that has been true since MacMahon revealed his feelings three days ago.
It is precisely at this time that Kessler suitors have taken themselves out of the running. Washington was rumored to be a Kessler suitor, but the trade for Anthony Davis neutralizes them as a threat. Indiana also wanted Kessler, but when the Jazz made it clear they weren’t giving him a pick, they got Ivica Zubac, eliminating them from the race.
Those were two cap space teams that used to need bigs, but no longer do. The Lakers desperately need a big man, and they will have cap space, but they will have their hands tied with Austin Reaves. Not to mention, they may be put off by the prospect of the Jazz matching any offer he receives.
Kessler may hold out to see if he can get the richest deal possible, but the Jazz sent a clear message from the jump.
Come on.
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