Walker Kessler

Walker Kessler (shoulder) is undergoing season-ending shoulder surgery.

Fantasy Impact

It’s a brutal blow for the Jazz. With their promising big man out for the rest of the season, more pressure will be put on guys like Jusuf Nurkic and Kyle Filipowski. Don’t be surprised if the Jazz bring in some big man help as well.

Walker Kessler has returned to Salt Lake City to receive further testing on his left shoulder.

Fantasy Impact

Kessler appears to be battling the same injury he dealt with in the preseason. Jusuf Nurkić should continue to start in his place.

Walker Kessler has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Hornets.

Fantasy Impact

Kessler is dealing with left shoulder bursitis. Jusuf Nurkić could see a spot start in his place.

Walker Kessler grabbed 13 rebounds, but scored just four points on 2-of-5 shooting, in Friday’s loss to the Suns. He added one assist and one steal to his line.

Fantasy Impact

The 13 rebounds marked a season-high, but the offensive output was underwhelming. It was the second time in five games this season that Kessler has scored in single digits, with the first being a three-point effort against the Kings on October 24. On a positive note, Kessler has scored 18 or more points in his other three contests, showing tangible growth on that end of the floor. The big man did not receive a contract extension before the season, so if he continues to build on this strong start, he could be in for a significant payday next summer as a restricted free agent.

Walker Kessler scored 18 points (7-12 FG, 3-4 3PT, 1-3 FT) to go along with 12 rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block in the 136-134 loss for the Jazz against the Trail Blazers.

Fantasy Impact

Kessler has seen an expanded role in shooting from deep this season. That could only raise his fantasy ceiling as he continues to rack up the rebounding numbers and defensive production as well.