The Utah Jazz remain fully committed to Walker Kessler despite making a major move to acquire Jaren Jackson Jr., according to Tony Jones of The Athletic.
MIN: 30.8
PTS: 14.4 (70.18%)
REB: 10.8
AS: 2.8
ST: 1.4
BL: 1.8
TO: 3.2
GM: 5
Utah's front office views the two big men as complementary pieces, not overlapping ones, as the team plans to build a powerful frontcourt around Jackson Jr., Lauri Markkanen, and Kessler.
The Jazz recently completed a blockbuster trade with the Memphis Grizzlies, landing Jackson Jr. in a deal that sent multiple players and three future first-round picks to Memphis.
Even after paying a high price, Utah's interest in keeping Kessler long-term has not changed.
Team officials believe Kessler's rim protection, rebounding, and interior presence fit perfectly next to Jackson's defensive versatility and ability to stretch the floor.
Jackson Jr. arrives in Utah with a reputation as one of the league's top defenders.
While his numbers dipped this season, he still averaged 19.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game while shooting 47.5 percent from the field.