Potential Lakers Target Walker Kessler Reportedly at Odds With Jazz Front Office
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Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler is in a standoff with team executives over the management of his restricted free agency, according to Sam Amick of The Athletic.
League sources told the outlet that the 24-year-old is “strongly considering” leaving Utah after the franchise opted not to extend him last summer and is now using the restricted-free-agency process to suppress his market value.
Interest from Los Angeles
The Los Angeles Lakers, who previously made trade offers for Kessler, are among several clubs that have pursued the 7-footer. Other teams that have shown significant interest include the Indiana Pacers, Atlanta Hawks, Washington Wizards, Toronto Raptors and New York Knicks.
Jazz hold matching rights
Because Kessler is a restricted free agent, Utah can match any offer sheet he signs. That leverage limits his immediate mobility unless he accepts a one-year qualifying offer or is moved in a sign-and-trade.
Roster and cap considerations
The Jazz already have Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr. on maximum contracts in the frontcourt, a circumstance rival teams believe could dissuade Utah from matching a rich offer for Kessler.
Lakers’ offseason options
Los Angeles owns three first-round picks available for trade and the flexibility to create substantial salary-cap space, giving the organization multiple avenues to upgrade the center position if a direct pursuit of Kessler proves unworkable.
Kessler averaged 8.1 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.4 blocks last season while shooting 65.0% from the field.
Source: LakersNation.com
