The J-Notes
Fansided

3 Utah Jazz that earned untouchable status, 1 that should be cut loose

By Eric Fritts

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)
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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Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz.
Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz. /

2. Walker Kessler

The Jazz fleeced the Minnesota Timberwolves with the Rudy Gobert trade. Even as it was happening, it was obvious that Ainge and the front office got the better of a desperate Minnesota franchise. What wasn’t obvious, though, was how good Walker Kessler was going to be.

Kessler was drafted by Memphis, then traded to Minnesota, before finally being sent over to Utah as a prospect. Fast forward only a few months later, and Utah wouldn’t trade Kessler for Gobert straight up. Kessler quickly found a role as one of the best rim protectors in the league. Finishing third in Rookie of the Year voting, even receiving two first-place votes.

Standing at over seven feet tall and only 21 years old, the potential is boundless. Rookies very rarely make an impact in their first year; Kessler did that and then some. Offensively, he found efficiency, shooting 72.3 percent on two-pointers and 75.3 percent at the rim on 8.2 attempts per 75 possessions (DunksandThrees.com).

He’s doing all the things that a good big should do with only one year of experience. Between him and Markkanen, Utah has its front court established for the forseeable future and could arguably be considered one of the best young front courts in the league.

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