Restricted free agent Walker Kessler and the Utah Jazz remain far apart, despite a five-year, $140 million offer on the table, ESPN reported Wednesday.
It reportedly would be the largest contract ever given to a center who has never been an All-Star. However, the 24-year-old Kessler and his representatives are looking for “significantly more than that,” per ESPN.
The Jazz have the right to match any offer sheet signed by Kessler, a first-round pick by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2022 NBA Draft who was immediately traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves and later dealt to the Jazz.
Kessler was limited to five starts last season before undergoing shoulder surgery to repair a torn labrum. He averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.8 blocks before the Oct. 31 injury.
The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the potential suitors for the 7-foot-2 Kessler, according to The Ringer.
Kessler ranked second in the league in blocks in 2023-24 (2.4 per game) and 2024-25 (2.4) and was fifth in rebounds (12.2) in 2024-25. He has career averages of 9.5 points, 9.3 rebounds and 2.4 blocked shots in 201 games (125 starts) over four seasons, all with Utah.
