Walker Kessler, Jazz Extension Hits Timeout

The Jazz and Walker Kessler aren't expected to reach a rookie-scale extension, Tony Jones reports. Utah still "highly value Kessler and see him as a cornerstone to the future," but after "multiple meetings" the sides remain far apart. The 24-year-old will make $4.9M in the final rookie year before restricted free agency in 2026 — notable because Kessler is an elite rim protector (2.4 bpg) coming off 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, 66.3% shooting and a league-leading 4.6 offensive boards. Merlin sees Utah weighing cap flexibility against locking a young anchor. Waiting preserves control and a potential cheaper path via RFA, but it also risks a much larger payday if Kessler takes another leap. The Oct. 20 deadline hangs like a spell ready to break the stalemate.