Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler is increasingly displeased with the franchise’s early contract discussions as he moves toward restricted free agency, according to a report by Sam Amick of The Athletic.
Amick’s sources said the 22-year-old has grown frustrated since last offseason, when preliminary extension talks failed to gain traction. Kessler believes Utah is leveraging its ability to match any outside offer — a right the team would secure by issuing a qualifying offer this summer — to hold down his market value, the report added.
The former first-round pick had previously viewed himself as a long-term cornerstone in Salt Lake City. Despite that outlook, negotiations have become strained, creating uncertainty about his future with the Jazz.
Utah is still interested in retaining the 7-footer, but the sticking point appears to be salary. Even after playing only five games last season before shoulder surgery ended his year, Kessler remains highly regarded around the league. Amick noted past interest from the Lakers, Hawks, Raptors, Wizards and Knicks, suggesting a robust market could form if talks with the Jazz stall.
For now, both sides have time to find common ground before free agency opens, but what once seemed like a seamless partnership has turned increasingly complicated.
Source: Hoops Wire
