Ranking the Utah Jazz's top 10 trade assets heading into the offseason

Ranking the Utah Jazz’s top 10 trade assets heading into the offseason

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - FEBRUARY 23: Lauri Markkanen #23 of the Utah Jazz in action during a game at Vivint Arena on February 28, 2023 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /

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Utah Jazz Walker Kessler (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images) /

3. Walker Kessler

Walker Kessler was one of the bigger surprises this past season for the Utah Jazz. He was also traded to the Jazz as part of the Rudy Gobert trade during the offseason. On his draft night, his rights were traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves from the Memphis Grizzlies. Nevertheless, the Grizzlies’ and Wolves’ loss is the Jazz’s gain. Kessler finished third in NBA Rookie of the Year voting after averaging nine points, eight rebounds, and two blocks per game on 72 percent shooting from the field.

He played 74 games for the Jazz and started 40. He appears to be a key part of the Jazz’s rebuild at the moment. Kessler is likely close to untouchable as Utah currently has on its roster at the moment. But if the Jazz did test the trade waters for the big man, the return could be great. They could easily land a future first-round pick.

The best part about Kessler is that we don’t really know what his ceiling is. Part of his value is the mystery that surrounding how he’ll continue to develop over the next few seasons. And there may not be a better development situation for Kessler than the Jazz.