As the NBA season progresses, the Utah Jazz continue to make waves with their young talent. One player who’s been turning heads is Walker Kessler. The question on everyone’s mind: Is Kessler a top 100 player in the league?
While he may not be on par with Rudy Gobert or Jarrett Allen just yet, Kessler is undoubtedly making his mark. His impact on the court is undeniable, and he’s showing potential to be a force in the league for years to come.
Kessler’s defensive prowess is particularly noteworthy. He’s already proving to be more impactful than players like Jakob Poeltl and Dereck Lively, who are currently ranked in the top 100. As he continues to develop, Kessler could find himself in the company of players like Myles Turner and Nikola Vučević.
The Rookie Landscape
This year’s rookie class has been a mixed bag, with many players struggling to find their footing in the NBA. Kyle Filipowski has surprised with his physicality and body strength, adapting quickly to the professional level. On the other hand, Cody Williams has shown flashes of brilliance but is still working on consistency and physical development.
Isaiah Collier, another promising rookie, has been less reckless than anticipated, though his shooting percentages leave room for improvement. It’s important to remember that rookies rarely excel in their first year, and this class is no exception.
Trade Scenarios and Future Prospects
As the trade deadline approaches, the Jazz find themselves in an interesting position. With a surplus of draft picks and young talent, the team may need to make some tough decisions. The idea of trading for established stars like Zion Williamson or Trae Young is intriguing, but it would require parting with valuable assets.
The concept of “second draft” players – those who might flourish in a new environment after struggling with their initial team – is also worth exploring. Players like Johnny Davis and James Bouknight could be potential targets for the Jazz as they look to bolster their roster.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Utah Jazz’s strategies and player development, tune into the Locked On Jazz podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Jazz Podcast:
• Will Hardy’s unique approach to player relationships
• The diversity of playing styles in the NBA
• Evaluating the Ochai Agbaji trade decision
