The Utah Jazz are a struggling franchise now, but they hope to build a competitive roster in the future.
However, the organization could shockingly trade a young 7-foot phenom to the Boston Celtics.
“Landing Jazz big man Walker Kessler would be an unbelievable coup for the Celtics,” Celtics Wire’s Cameron Tabatabaie wrote Thursday. “Dealing the third-year center this season could benefit Utah, too.”
“It’s an open secret the Jazz are more focused on their position in the 2025 NBA draft lottery than they are with winning games this season.”
“The prospect of landing a generational talent like Cooper Flagg is too good to ignore, and Utah is one of several teams vying for the top pick in the draft.”
“Unfortunately for Ainge, the Jazz may be a little too good to secure the best lottery odds. Walker Kessler is a big part of that.”
“He’s averaging 10.7 points and 11.2 rebounds per game this season, and is one of the best players on Utah. Sure, the 23-year-old would look great against a guy like Flagg, but only if the Jazz can tank effectively.”
“That’s where the Celtics come in. Boston could use Jaden Springer’s $4.0 million contract attached to draft capital to try to convince Ainge to commit further to losing and ultimately trade Walker to the Hub.”
“According to Forbes’ Evan Sidery, the Jazz will likely want multiple first-round picks in any potential Kessler trade. This would be a a steep asking price, but worthwhile for the Celtics for a number of reasons.”
Kessler has only completed two full NBA seasons, but he’s already proven he has the natural tools and instincts to develop into a multi-time All-Star.
Whether the Auburn product is utilizing his soft touch to drill jump hooks around the rim or giving opponents the illusion they have open layup opportunities before swatting away their hopes and dreams at the rim, Kessler is positively impacting the Jazz.
It may be a fun exercise to imagine Kessler in a Celtics uniform.
However, with the Jazz claiming they aren’t open to trading the former SEC Player of the Year, Tabatabaie will probably be disappointed.
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