As the NBA trade deadline approached, the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers showed significant interest in Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler. NBA insider Marc Stein reported that despite the attraction from these big market teams, the Jazz made it clear that the 23-year-old standout was not available for trade discussions this season.
Kessler, drafted 22nd overall in the 2022 NBA Draft and shortly thereafter traded from Auburn to Utah in a blockbuster deal involving Rudy Gobert, has rapidly become a central figure for the Jazz. His rookie season performance was notable, with Kessler averaging 9.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, and an impressive 2.3 blocks per game while shooting 72.0 percent from the field. This exceptional start to his career led to a third-place finish in the Rookie of the Year voting.
Despite a slight dip in his numbers in the following season, Kessler’s contributions remained substantial, with averages of 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game. This season, however, he has ramped up his production, posting averages of 11.4 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks across 46 games. He’s remained a rock-solid player with further upside for a team needing a rim protector and paint finisher.
NBA Rumors: Utah Jazz Stifled ‘Reasonable’ Walker Kessler Trades
The interest from teams like the Knicks and Lakers underscores Kessler’s rising stock in the league. According to Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times, despite multiple teams expressing their desire to acquire Kessler, the consensus within the league circles was that he was “not available in any realistic trade scenarios.”
The Jazz’s firm stance at the trade deadline echoed this sentiment, as they continue to view Kessler as a pivotal part of their long-term plans. Utah doesn’t need to shop the young center by any means, but it shouldn’t refuse enticing trade offers.
The Knicks and Lakers, striving to enhance their rosters for a deep playoff run, viewed Kessler as a potential game-changer who could complement their existing cores. However, Utah’s refusal to engage in trade talks highlights their commitment to building around the young center as a cornerstone of their franchise.
For now, Kessler remains in Utah, where he continues to elevate his game and solidify his status as one of the NBA’s promising young talents. After a lengthy recovery from two ankle surgeries, the Knicks will soon regain Mitchell Robinson for his season debut. What about the Lakers?
NBA Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Could Still Use Trade for Center
The Lakers, meanwhile, continue their search for a reliable big man after their failed trade attempt to acquire Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets. According to the Lakers, the deal fell through when Williams failed his physical examination despite his agent’s assertions of his readiness and fitness to play.
The agent, Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports Management, contested the decision, stating, “The overwhelming sentiment, after conferring with multiple, nationally recognized doctors, is that the Los Angeles Lakers should not have failed Mark Williams on his physical. Mark was ready and able to play for them and should have been given that opportunity.”
The Lakers’ need for a substantial presence in the paint remains critical, and their interest in Kessler could re-emerge in the offseason. Given his proven ability to make an impact in the paint on both ends, he represents the talent the Lakers are desperate to add.
As they look forward to building a competitive team around their core, including Luka Doncic and LeBron James, pursuing a significant trade for a player like Kessler could be high on their agenda. The failed trade for Williams has only intensified the Lakers’ urgency to secure a capable big man, especially with the need to entice Doncic to commit long-term.
