The Utah Jazz announced that center Walker Kessler will undergo left shoulder surgery on a torn labrum that will conclude his 2025-26 season. The news was first reported by The Athletic’s Tony Jones.
Now in his fourth NBA season, Kessler is averaging 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.8 blocks, and 1.4 steals across his 30.8 minutes per game. The Auburn product has established himself as a potential foundational piece of this Jazz core, who are off to a 3-4 start to the season.
This also is a tough break for Kessler individually as he will be a restricted free agent this summer. The big man has looked like a high level contributor, but failed to reach an extension leading into the season and will enter free agency with a career-low five games played on the year. Kessler played 74 games as a rookie, 64 in 2023-24, and 58 last year.
Utah has not been shy about their desire to have another chance at a high draft pick this season. It is the best decision for both sides for Kessler to take care of the surgery now and begin his recovery process. At 24 years old there is a bright future for the 7-foot-2 center whether this is with the Jazz or elsewhere.
Utah will keep their attention on the season and prepare for a matchup with the Pistons tonight. The Jazz enter as 9.5-point underdogs and hold +350 odds of getting the outright victory on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Stay tuned to DK Network for live updates.
