Walker Kessler’s future in Utah may not be locked in just yet, but make no mistake - the Jazz are playing the long game, and they’re playing it with confidence.
After going through the offseason without an extension, Kessler is now heading into restricted free agency this summer. That alone might raise a few eyebrows, especially with the Washington Wizards reportedly preparing to make a strong push for the 7-footer.
Their plan? Pair him with rookie Alex Sarr and start building a new-look frontline in D.C.
But according to league sources, Utah isn’t sweating the competition.
The Jazz believe they’re in full control of the situation. As a restricted free agent, Kessler can field offers, but Utah has the right to match any deal - and based on what we’re hearing, they’re more than ready to do just that.
The front office knew exactly what it was doing by not extending Kessler last summer. It wasn’t about hesitation or second-guessing.
It was about flexibility - the kind that allows them to chase a marquee free agent while still keeping their rising big man in the fold.
In other words, Utah’s trying to have it both ways - and they just might pull it off.
Of course, that doesn’t mean this summer won’t come with a little drama. If the Wizards - or any other team - throw a big number at Kessler, the Jazz will have a decision to make.
But all signs point to them being ready for that moment. They know what they have in Kessler, and they’re not about to let him walk without a fight.
And for good reason.
Kessler’s value goes beyond the box score. His rim protection is elite.
His rebounding is relentless. He’s the kind of defensive anchor teams build around - and Utah knows it.
That’s what separates his situation from the ones we saw last offseason with players like Jonathan Kuminga and Quentin Grimes. Kessler has already shown he can impact winning, and that puts him in a different conversation entirely.
Washington may be ready to test Utah’s resolve, but the Jazz aren’t blinking. They’ve got the leverage, the cap strategy, and most importantly, the belief that Kessler is a key piece of their future. Whatever offer sheet comes his way, Utah’s message is clear: bring it on.
Now, until pen hits paper, nothing is official. That’s just the nature of free agency. But if you’re a Jazz fan wondering whether Kessler might get away, the current read is simple - Utah’s not letting go without a serious fight.