The Utah Jazz haven’t exactly lit up the standings this season, and that’s not catching anyone off guard. This is a team in the middle of a rebuild, and growing pains are part of the deal.
But despite the losing record, there have been some bright spots in Salt Lake City. Keyonte George is showing real promise as a lead guard, and Lauri Markkanen continues to put up numbers that remind you why he was an All-Star not long ago.
Still, the injury to Walker Kessler has been a gut punch.
Kessler, the Jazz’s defensive anchor and one of the most efficient young bigs in the league, has missed most of the season. And his absence has been felt on both ends of the floor.
Utah’s interior defense has taken a hit, and the rebounding numbers haven’t been the same without him cleaning the glass. But the implications go beyond this season-Kessler is heading into the final year of his rookie deal, and he’ll be a restricted free agent this summer.
That opens the door for other teams to come calling. And according to league chatter, one team that could make a serious push? The Washington Wizards.
Washington Eyeing Kessler as a Frontcourt Fix
Per ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, the Wizards are reportedly preparing to make a significant offer to Kessler in free agency. The Jazz still hold the advantage-they can match any offer as part of Kessler’s restricted free agency-but Washington’s interest is real.
And it makes sense.
The Wizards made a franchise-altering move earlier this season, trading CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert to Atlanta in exchange for Trae Young. With Young now locked in as a foundational piece, the front office is clearly looking to build a roster that complements his strengths-and covers for his weaknesses.
That’s where Kessler comes in.
Washington already has some intriguing young talent: Kyshawn George has flashed shot-making and versatility, Bilal Coulibaly is blossoming into a high-level defender, and rookie big man Alex Sarr is starting to find his footing. But Sarr might be better suited to the four long-term, especially if his outside shot continues to develop. Pairing him with a true rim protector like Kessler could give the Wizards a frontcourt that’s both dynamic and defensively sound.
And let’s be honest-if you’re building around Trae Young, you need a defensive safety net behind him. Kessler offers exactly that.
He’s one of the league’s best young shot-blockers, and his instincts in drop coverage are already advanced beyond his years. Plugging him into that Wizards lineup would give them a much-needed defensive identity.
Utah’s Decision: Match or Move On?
From the Jazz’s perspective, retaining Kessler should be near the top of their offseason to-do list. Before the injury, he was producing at a high level-protecting the rim, controlling the boards, and finishing efficiently around the basket. He’s not the kind of player you let walk, especially when you’re trying to build a young, sustainable core.
Utah has a promising group forming. George is emerging as a backcourt leader.
Lauri Markkanen, still in his prime, gives them a go-to scorer. And with top prospect Ace Bailey set to join the mix, there’s a clear vision taking shape.
Kessler fits that timeline perfectly. His skill set complements the rest of the roster, and his defensive presence is something that’s hard to replace.
Sure, other teams will come knocking. Washington might not be the only one.
But the Jazz have the final say. As a restricted free agent, Kessler can field offers-but Utah has the right to match.
And if they’re serious about building something real in the West, keeping Kessler in a Jazz uniform should be a no-brainer.
The next few months will be telling. But one thing’s clear: Walker Kessler’s value is rising, and teams around the league are taking notice.