Height
7'2"
Weight
245 lbs
Age
24
College
Auburn
Experience
3 yrs
Wingspan
7'4.3"
Reach
9'5.0"
Hand Size
8.5" × 8.5"
Fan Verdict
Grade this player:
Career StatsC
| Year | Team | GP | PPG | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | FG% | 3PT% | FT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career |  | 201 | 14.4 | 10.8 | 3.0 | 1.4 | 1.8 | 70.3% | 26.6% | 54.5% |
| 2025-26 | | 5 | 14.4 | 10.8 | 3.0 |
Current Contract
Length
1 year
Total Value
$4.9M
Guaranteed
$4.9M
AAV
$4.9M/yr
Contract Value Index (CVI)
Walker Kessler's one-year, $4.9M extension with the Jazz earns a B- CVI, reflecting solid value for a defensive anchor still developing his offensive game. The 23-year-old center has established himself as a legitimate rim protector and rebounding presence, making this deal a smart bet on continued growth at a reasonable price point. Utah gets cost certainty on a solid starter who could blossom into something more, while Kessler avoids restricted free agency and secures his first real payday. The short-term structure works for both sides — the Jazz maintain flexibility as they navigate their rebuild timeline, and Kessler can prove he's worth a larger commitment down the line. This isn't a home run deal, but it's the type of calculated risk that championship-contending teams need to take on young talent, even if Utah isn't quite there yet. The contract keeps Kessler's trade value intact while giving him runway to develop the offensive skills that would elevate him from solid starter to franchise-caliber piece.
Performance Analysis
Walker Kessler earns a C Performance grade — solid for a ascending player entering his prime window, with room to grow into a larger role. This season, Walker is putting up 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game across 201 games. Walker's strongest area is RPG at 10.8, which compares favorably to the center median of 5.0. The biggest area for growth is APG at 3.0 (center median: 4.0). Among 97 NBA centers graded this season, Walker ranks 65th. As a All-Rookie 1st Team talent at just 24, Walker's development trajectory suggests the best is yet to come for the Utah Jazz.
Transaction History
No transactions found for this player.
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