Overview

• Kessler will earn $4.9 million in 2025-26, the final season of his rookie contract.
• The sides held multiple offseason meetings and Utah made a formal offer, but negotiations never approached an agreement.
• Team officials still describe the 24-year-old rim protector as a long-term cornerstone despite the lack of a deal.
• The rookie-extension window runs through Oct. 20, though reporting indicates an agreement before the deadline is unlikely.
• Kessler’s 2024-25 production—11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, 66.3% shooting, and a league-leading 4.6 offensive boards per game—has strengthened his market value.