Walker Kessler has emerged as a dominant force on the offensive glass for the Utah Jazz, and his impact is reshaping the team’s performance in unexpected ways. Since late November, Kessler has been on an offensive rebounding tear, consistently pulling down multiple offensive boards per game.
The key to Kessler’s success lies in his improved technique and newfound strength. Rather than attempting risky swim moves to get around opponents, he’s mastered the art of tipping the ball from behind. His increased physical strength allows him to maintain position and reach for the ball without being dislodged.
This evolution in Kessler’s game is a testament to his development. He’s transitioned from a bouncy big man to a grounded force, using his base strength to hold his position and dominate the boards. Since November 27th, Kessler has been averaging an impressive 4.7 offensive rebounds per game, leading the league by a significant margin.
The impact of Kessler’s rebounding prowess extends beyond individual statistics. The Jazz’s offensive rating has skyrocketed from 26th in the league to 12th during this period. Their shooting efficiency has also improved dramatically, moving from 22nd to 10th in the league rankings.
Kessler’s ability to create second-chance opportunities is turning zero-point possessions into two or three-point gains. This seemingly small change is having a ripple effect across the team’s performance, potentially adding several points per game to the Jazz’s offensive output.
Defensively, while the impact isn’t as pronounced as initially expected, there are still noticeable improvements. The Jazz have moved from 29th to 26th in defensive rankings during Kessler’s rebounding surge. His presence on the offensive glass is forcing opponents to commit more players to rebounding, potentially limiting their transition opportunities.
For more insights and a deeper dive into Walker Kessler’s impact on the Jazz, tune into the Locked On Jazz podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Jazz Podcast:
• Analysis of the Oklahoma City vs. Cleveland game
• Comparing small market success stories in the NBA
• The evolution of NBA gameplay and assist percentages
