The Walker Kessler free agency saga has already started, and it already looks as tense as many anticipated it would be. First, it came out that he was frustrated with how the Utah Jazz have handled his free agency, then it came out what Utah's offer was, and most recently, Kessler clarified that what he wants more than anything is to stay in Utah.
There's no reason to think Kessler is lying, but there's also no reason to think that his recent admission means this staring contest will end quickly. It won't. In fact, expect more drama like this to come out over the next few months.
Now, whenever situations like these arise, the common question is whether the player in question, Kessler, will stay with the Jazz. Throw that out right now because restricted free agency makes it next to impossible for him to leave. He could accept the qualifying offer, but he would stand to lose significant money and leverage, so believe me when I say even if that's technically an option, he definitely won't go that route.
He will stay as a Jazzman, but what should be in question is for how long. Even if Kessler admits he wants to be on the Jazz for the long haul, it seems pretty clear he believes he is worth more than what the Jazz have to offer, despite the fact that the contract they are offering is pretty fair for someone who hasn't made an All-Star team and is coming off a season in which he barely played.
It wouldn't be shocking if Kessler takes a three-year deal rather than five
If Kessler and Utah have a stalemate throughout the summer, it will be resolved, but it may result in Kessler taking a three-year deal with a team option rather than the five-year deal the Jazz are offering for him.
If he truly thinks he's better than the money Utah has offered for him upfront, a deal like that gives him the opportunity to prove as such with the hope of getting paid more in the not too distant future. It would simultaneously be a situation where he'd get a raise and still bet on himself. Not to mention it would be a believable compromise for the Jazz if that's what he wants.
Does that mean all hope is lost for Kessler's long-term future with the Jazz? Not necessarily. The front office's offer for Kessler is honestly not all too insulting. It definitely signals that they believe in him and want him for the long haul.
It's very possible that such a scenario could work out for all sides in the end. If Kessler believes that he is a franchise player, which he then proves, he would give Utah all the proof they need to give him the contract he wants, even if they don't want to do it now.
Don't be surprised if this is the final outcome, which should definitely keep everyone's eyes peeled on whether stays in Utah for years to come.
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