Jazz Have Plenty to Feel Good About Despite Walker Kessler Departure

News ArticlePublishedJul 22, 2026 at 07:49 PM EDTThe Utah Jazz took a hit when they moved on from Walker Kessler, and there's no getting around that. Losing a young, talented big man changes the way this roster looks heading into next season, especially for a team that was starting to feel like a true contender in the Western Conference.Kessler brought plenty of value on the defensive end. His ability to protect the rim, clean up mistakes and make opponents think twice, and panic, gave Utah an important piece to build around. Replacing that kind of presence won't be simple.Now the spotlight shifts to how coach Will Hardy handles the frontcourt rotation. Jaren Jackson Jr. could see more time, while Jusuf Nurkic and new addition Jaxson Hayes will have opportunities to carve out bigger roles.