The Utah Jazz appear willing to make Walker Kessler one of the highest-paid centers in the league. The problem is that the two sides still aren’t close to reaching an agreement.
Utah has already put a five-year contract worth approximately $140 million on the table for the restricted free agent big man, according to ESPN. Despite the size of the offer, sources indicated there remains a significant gap between Kessler and the organization in ongoing negotiations.
If signed, the deal would reportedly become the largest contract ever awarded to a center who had not yet earned an NBA All-Star selection.
That alone highlights how highly the Jazz value Kessler’s long-term potential.
The seven-foot-two center has established himself as one of the league’s elite defensive anchors since entering the NBA. Although shoulder surgery limited him to just five games last season, his previous campaign demonstrated exactly why Utah is eager to secure him long term.
During the 2024-25 season, Kessler averaged 11.1 points while shooting 66.3 percent from the field. He also finished second in the NBA in blocks at 2.4 per game and ranked fifth in rebounding with 12.2 boards per contest.
Despite those numbers, the two sides have yet to find common ground.
The good news for Utah is that the franchise still maintains significant leverage. As a restricted free agent, Kessler can negotiate with other teams, but the Jazz retain the right to match any offer sheet he signs elsewhere.
Utah’s front office is comfortable allowing foundational players to enter restricted free agency if an extension cannot be finalized beforehand.
Kessler is not the only young Jazz player involved in contract discussions. ESPN also reported that there is uncertainty surrounding a potential rookie extension for guard Keyonte George.
While Utah remains optimistic about George’s future after his breakout season, sources indicated the organization would like to see another year of growth before committing to a deal near the rookie maximum.
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