The Utah Jazz are facing a pivotal moment-not just in their season, but in the future of one of their most promising young players. Walker Kessler, the 7-footer who turned heads with his rim protection and rebounding instincts as a rookie, is now at the center of a contract standoff that’s starting to grab league-wide attention.
Let’s rewind to December 2025, when reports surfaced that Kessler’s camp was eyeing a long-term extension north of $120 million. That’s a hefty number, and it’s clear the Jazz aren’t ready to meet it-at least not yet.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst and Tim MacMahon on a recent episode of The Hoop Collective, there’s a noticeable gap between what Kessler believes he’s worth and what Utah is willing to pay. MacMahon didn’t mince words, saying Kessler’s side believes he’s worth “much, much more” than $25 million per year.
That’s not your average contract dispute-that’s a clear message from Kessler’s camp: they see him as a foundational piece, not just a role-playing big.
From the Jazz’s perspective, $25 million annually is a significant commitment, especially for a player who’s still developing on the offensive end. But Kessler’s value isn’t just in the box score. He’s a defensive anchor, a shot-blocking presence who alters game plans, and when healthy, he’s shown flashes of being more than just a paint protector.
The timing of this situation only adds to the drama. Kessler is heading into restricted free agency this summer, which means the Jazz can match any offer sheet he receives. But if another team sees him as a future All-Star and is willing to pay him like one, Utah could be forced into a decision that defines the next phase of their rebuild.
And right now, the Jazz are in a tough spot. They’re sitting 13th in the Western Conference with a 17-37 record-far from playoff contention and clearly still in the midst of a roster retool. Losing Kessler, or mishandling his contract situation, could set that process back even further.
Injuries haven’t helped either. Kessler underwent season-ending surgery in November to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. He played just five games this season, but his production in those appearances-14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game-showed the kind of all-around impact he’s capable of when fully healthy.
Heading into their next matchup against the Sacramento Kings, the Jazz will be without several key players. Lauri Markkanen is sitting out for rest, Keyonte George is sidelined with a right ankle sprain, and Kessler remains out as he continues recovering from shoulder surgery.
Injuries, contract questions, and a losing record-it’s been a rough stretch in Salt Lake City. But how the Jazz handle the Kessler situation could be a turning point.
Do they see him as a cornerstone worth a nine-figure deal? Or will they let the market decide his value this summer?
One thing’s for sure: Walker Kessler’s next move-and Utah’s response-will be one of the most closely-watched storylines as the offseason approaches.