Jazz Want At Least Two First-Round Picks For Walker Kessler – Basketball Insiders

It’s no secret that Utah Jazz GM, Danny Ainge, runs a tough deal when discussing trades. Nothing illustrates this concept more than his latest asking price for young center, Walker Kessler. The Jazz reportedly want at least two first-round draft picks in exchange for the former North Carolina Tar Heel. It will be difficult to convince a competitor to stop this role playing. However, this player is very talented. However, stranger things have happened, especially when dealing with Danny Ainge.

Utah Jazz Want Two First Round Picks for Walker Kessler

Walker Kessler’s influence

Kessler has shown promising ability in his first two seasons in the league. He made the All-Rookie Team in the 2022-23 campaign and established himself as one of the league’s top rim protectors. Standing at seven feet and weighing 245 pounds, Walker Kessler is a great asset around the rim. However, Utah is in the middle of a rebuilding phase which means almost no one is out of service. Given Kessler’s ability to defend and rebound, he will command significant trade interest.

In his career thus far, he has averaged 8.7 points, 2.4 blocks, and 8.0 rebounds per game while shooting 69.0 percent from the field. Kessler’s rookie season is where he really made his presence felt as he averaged 9.2 points, 8.4 total rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game while posting a 72.0 percent field goal percentage. His role has diminished somewhat within the Utah offense. Despite this, one can see how high Walker Kessler’s ceiling is as he enters only his third season in the NBA.

Groups May Be Interested in Jazz Center

As already mentioned, there are a few teams that may be in the market for the young shot stopper. The Golden State Warriors have been in dire need of a legitimate paint center for quite some time now. This match makes all the sense in the world. Especially alongside Draymond Green in the frontcourt. Not to mention that it may be a sign for Steph Curry that the team is willing to surround him with young talent. Another team that could show interest in Kessler is the Los Angeles Lakers. This would allow Anthony Davis to move into his natural position at power forward. Not to mention it will form a strong frontcourt with Davis and LeBron James. Considering all of this, don’t be surprised if Walker Kessler starts getting more trade profit.