NBA Rumors: Utah Jazz have made Walker Kessler and Lauri Markannen off-limits
The Utah Jazz are one of the most surprising NBA teams in the 2022-23 season. They are 24-25, good enough for the ninth spot in the Western Conference, which is a big success.
After trading Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell in the offseason, many fans believed that the Jazz would tank. However, they turned out to be amazing and could be a pleasant surprise in the playoffs.
According to rumors, the team is not willing to part ways with Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler. The two big men have done a fantastic job so far this season and the Jazz will most likely keep them on the team for the long term.
Lauri Markkanen is untouchable and is the best player on the Utah Jazz
With the trade deadline approaching, the Utah Jazz will most likely look to make a few roster moves. After a hot start, they've cooled down, but are still one of the most promising teams in the West.
Lauri Markkanen is having a career year. He is averaging 24.8 points and 8.7 rebounds per game. He's also very efficient from almost every spot on the floor, converting 52.0% of shots from the field and 42.7% long-range shots.
If Danny Ainge decides to retool the roster, Markkanen will be untouchable. Everyone besides him and Kessler could be moved by the trade deadline on Feb. 9.
You may be interested in reading: Where is Lauri Markkanen from? Hometown, College, and more to know about Utah Jazz player
The 7-footer currently ranks seventh in the All-Star voting among Western Conference frontcourt players. While he most likely won't be an All-Star starter, there is a good chance that he will make the team. If this happens, it will be Markkanen's first All-Star selection.
Walker Kessler is an amazing rookie
Besides Markkanen, the Utah Jazz are not willing to part ways with Walker Kessler either. While the 7-1 center has had some amazing performances so far, it's unusual that he's already considered untouchable.
Kessler is only 21 and has appeared in 46 games for the Jazz this season, averaging 7.5 points, 7.2 rebounds and 2.0 blocks per game. He's also one of the most efficient scorers in the league with a 70.6% field-goal percentage.
The rookie was acquired in the Rudy Gobert trade and has turned out to be a fantastic piece for the Jazz. Considering that he has three more years left on his rookie-scale contract, the team could get a lot out of him before giving him another deal.
You may be interested in reading: Who is Walker Kessler: Utah Jazz's blocking machine emerging as an NBA Draft steal
The big man has had nine double-doubles so far in his rookie campaign, including a 20-point, 21-rebound game against the Minnesota Timberwolves and Rudy Gobert.