The Utah Jazz and Walker Kessler have failed to reach an agreement on an early contract extension, according to TA staff writer Tony Jones. Kessler, who is in the final year of his rookie contract and is expected to become a restricted free agent next summer, has been unable to reach an agreement on an early contract extension.

The 24-year-old Kesler, the 22nd overall pick in the 2022 first round, has blossomed into one of the league's top defensive centers and rim protectors. Since joining the Jazz, he has appeared in 196 regular season games, averaging 9.4 points, 9.2 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 2.4 blocks per game while shooting 68.0% from the field and 19.6% from three-point range.

Tony Jones learned that although the two sides have held multiple talks on contract extension this summer, they are still far from reaching an agreement. In this regard, Jones gave his opinion: the reason why the Jazz postponed the contract extension is mainly due to considerations of salary space operation.

Multiple sources indicate that the Jazz hope to end their long-standing streak of being in the middle and lower ranks of the Western Conference as early as next summer. By holding off on renewing Kesler's contract, the Jazz can use their $14.9 million salary cap space to sign a free agent next summer, while also using Bird Rights to break the cap if necessary. Conversely, the hefty amount of the new contract could reduce the Jazz's salary flexibility.

Tony Jones further pointed out that the Jazz's move carries potential risks. If Kesler continues to improve in the new season, his market value will undoubtedly increase significantly. At that time, it is possible that a few teams with cap space, such as the Los Angeles Lakers, will enter the competition.

Despite this, the Jazz's management has been clear: they see Kesler as a core member of their rebuilding plan after trading away Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell, and have repeatedly refused to trade him. This summer, management even visited Kesler's home in the Atlanta area to explain the team's financial plan to him.