Walker Kessler Insurance? Utah Jazz Reportedly Interested in Re-Signing Jusuf Nurkić
· Yahoo Sports
While the Utah Jazz sort out the financial future of impending restricted free agent Walker Kessler, the franchise could make additional moves in the frontcourt as insurance for the 24-year-old.
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On Saturday, HoopsHype's Michael Scotto revealed in his NBA intel update that Utah is interested in re-signing veteran big man Jusuf Nurkić, who was meant to serve as Kessler's backup.
Back in November of 2025, Kessler underwent season-ending left shoulder surgery to repair a torn labrum, paving the way for a larger role for Nurkić.
In his lone season with the Jazz, Nurkić averaged 10.9 points and 10.4 rebounds per game, producing a double-double on a nightly basis for the first time since doing so for the Phoenix Suns in the 2023-24 campaign.
But the numbers certainly aren't the only reason Utah's brass is interested in bringing the 31-year-old back for another go around.
The Kessler contract talks haven't seemed to be very productive thus far, even if the rebounding specialist took to Instagram to express his desire to remain in Salt Lake City.
Kessler will likely be the Jazz's top priority once the NBA Draft is completed. He's been a part of Utah's young core since the franchise opted to rebuild by trading away Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert.
Should a rival throw an offer at Kessler that aligns financially with what he's been seeking from Utah, bringing back Nurkić becomes vital.
The Jazz are also looking for 2024 second-rounder Kyle Filipowski to take another step in his development. The Duke product turned in 11.4 points and 7.2 rebounds per game in his second season as a pro, putting up encouraging stats in a crowded Utah frontcourt.
Considering he's been in the league for 12 seasons already, Nurkić could serve as a great resource for Filipowski to learn from regardless of who comes first in Will Hardy's rotation.
And Hardy certainly has some decisions to make on his frontcourt.
The presence of Jaren Jackson Jr. also plays a major factor in how Utah approaches things. Does Hardy view him as the team's five? Or, would he be better suited at the four, next to either Nurkić, Kessler or Filipowski?
Eventual answers to these questions will largely dictate what this summer — specifically free agency — looks like for Utah.
Until we receive more intel surrounding the franchise's plans, Jazz fans should prepare for any outcome: Kessler and Nurkić both sticking around, only one returning, or both moving on.