Walker Kessler Player Profile

Kessler's defensive potential is known across the league, but his offensive game has not evolved as expected, and it's believed the Jazz could be open to listening to offers for the big man. Kessler averaged 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game during the 2023-24 season.

New York needs to add depth and size down low following the departure of Isaiah Hartenstein, who signed with the Thunder in the offseason. The Knicks are exploring all possible avenues to sign another big man before the end of free agency, although they're not ruling out potential trades, either. The Jazz are asking for at least a first-round pick for Kessler. While he'd bring some much-needed rim protection to New York after averaging 2.4 blocks per game in 2023-24, it's unclear if the Knicks have enough assets to acquire the seven-footer after emptying their war chest to acquire Mikal Bridges.

The No. 22 overall pick of the 2022 Draft has great potential as a rim protector, and he has averaged 2.3 blocks through his first two seasons. Kessler has already left an impression on the league, and he could be traded for a first-round pick at the very least if the Jazz find the right offer. In two seasons with the Jazz, the big man has averaged 8.6 points and 8.0 rebounds across 23.1 minutes while shooting 69.0 percent from the field.

New York just lost Isaiah Hartenstein in free agency, creating an opening in the team's frontcourt. Kessler is coming off a disappointing 2023-24 campaign, in part due to the addition of John Collins to the Utah roster, so a fresh start could be in the best interest of both sides.

Kessler's defensive potential is known across the league, but his offensive game has not evolved as expected, and it's believed the Jazz could be open to listening to offers for the big man. Kessler averaged 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game during the 2023-24 season.