Walker Kessler Turns Down Massive Jazz Offer as Contract Standoff Takes Shape
As the offseason begins to ramp up, the Utah Jazz have found themselves in a tough spot already with restricted free agent big man Walker Kessler.
The Jazz are reportedly not close to a deal despite presenting Kessler with an offer worth around $140 million over five years. The current contract on the table would make it the biggest deal ever given to a center that has yet to earn an All-Star Game selection.
Utah holds significant importance in retaining Kessler as he’s one of the game’s top young big men behind his premier shot blocking and rebounding. Although his 2025-26 season was cut short after five games due to shoulder surgery, the 24-year-old remains coveted not only by the Jazz but also by other teams due to his promising play and future.
He put together a productive 2024-25 season, averaging a double-double with 11.1 points and ranking fifth with 12.2 rebounds, while ranking second in the league with 2.4 blocks.
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Although the Jazz are far from a new deal with Kessler, the team can match any contract another team offers. The question is whether another franchise will give him the deal he is looking for on the open market.
Utah will likely look to match to keep him for the long haul, as he’s a foundational piece of their young core. The front office is also busy working toward hammering out a new deal for guard Keyonte George, as it’s reported that the organization could have difficulty getting him to an agreement on a rookie contract extension.
