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[Saba Sports News] The Utah Jazz may be open to trading Walker Kessler, but he’s not cheap.
The New York Knicks have shown interest in Kessler, with SNY’s Ian Begley reporting that the Jazz turned down the Knicks’ offer of a first-round pick for him.
On Tuesday, Begley revealed that teams had offered two first-round picks for Kessler in recent weeks, but the Jazz declined these offers as well. While the value of first-round picks can vary based on team performance and protections, it’s notable that the Jazz rejected such offers.
The 22-year-old Kessler had an impressive rookie season with the Jazz, finishing third in 2022-23 Rookie of the Year voting with averages of 9.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks on 72.0% shooting. His stats dipped last season after the addition of John Collins, but he still managed 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game over 64 games.
Kessler was the No. 22 pick in 2022 out of Auburn.