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Joe Mazzulla, Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics spent the summer resetting their books. By trading Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and Georges Niang, the front office’s main goal was accomplished: getting under the second apron.
Team president Brad Stevens called the move a “reset” and emphasized the importance of flexibility. New owner Bill Chisholm echoed the sentiment, saying the organization’s focus is on giving itself opportunities to strike when the right deals arise.
That mindset has already fueled speculation about what Boston might do next. CelticsBlog’s Jack Anderson recently pointed to Walker Kessler as the type of promising young big who could fit the Celtics’ long-term vision if the right opportunity presents itself.
The Utah Jazz will NOT sign Walker Kessler to an extension, and he’s expected to become a free agent next summer, per @Tjonesonthenba
“The Utah Jazz and Walker Kessler will not reach an agreement on a rookie-scale contract extension, league sources tell The Athletic, which… pic.twitter.com/aiGHgN7CFc
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 24, 2025
Why Kessler Makes Sense for Celtics
Kessler is exactly the type of defensive presence the Celtics lack. At seven feet tall, he brings rim protection, rebounding, and the discipline to avoid foul trouble.
Last season, opponents shot just 53.7% at the rim with Kessler as the nearest defender. He averaged 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game for the Jazz. His rim protection was a clear strength, finishing among the league leaders in blocks.
With Boston now leaning on Neemias Queta, Luka Garza, and Chris Boucher at center, Kessler would be a major upgrade and a long-term solution.
Kessler’s Restricted Free Agency Path
It was reported this week that Utah and Kessler will not agree to an extension before the rookie-scale deadline, meaning he will become a restricted free agent next summer. That opens multiple pathways for Boston.
The Celtics could make a direct run at him, but if his price climbs above mid-level exception territory, a sign-and-trade might be required. That is where someone like Anfernee Simons could come into play as a trade chip. Boston also holds a $22.5 million trade exception through 2026, which adds another layer of flexibility if Utah prefers to get assets back.
Restricted free agency does not make Kessler unattainable. It simply means Boston would need to get creative.
Building the Future for the Celtics
What makes Kessler so appealing is not just what he provides now, but what he could become. He is already one of the league’s better young rim protectors, and his offensive game is still developing.
Boston has not had a long-term defensive anchor in the middle since moving on from Robert Williams III. Kessler fits that mold — young, controllable, and capable of anchoring a defense for years to come.
What’s Next
Kessler remains with Utah for now, but the clock is ticking. Extension talks are off the table, and he will be one of the more intriguing names to watch in restricted free agency. If the Jazz begin exploring options, Boston will be among the teams positioned to strike.
The Celtics spent the offseason talking about flexibility. Whether it is Kessler or another target, that flexibility is about to be tested.
Keith Watkins Keith Watkins is a sports journalist covering the NBA for Heavy.com, with a focus on the Golden State Warriors, Boston Celtics, and Los Angeles Lakers. He previously wrote for FanSided, NBA Analysis Network, and Last Word On Sports. Keith is based in Bangkok, Thailand. More about Keith Watkins
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