The Boston Celtics enter the new season with optimism — but one concern remains: depth in the frontcourt.
With Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford, and Luke Kornet all gone, Boston’s center rotation looks thin. The team will rely on Neemias Queta, Chris Boucher, Luka Garza, and Xavier Tillman to hold things down — a group full of effort, but light on proven NBA production.
That’s why Hoops Habit’s Cal Durrett believes the Celtics should keep tabs on Utah Jazz big man Walker Kessler, a 23-year-old defensive anchor who could fit perfectly into Boston’s system.
Kessler and the Jazz failed to agree on a rookie-scale extension before the deadline, and while that doesn’t guarantee a trade, it certainly makes him a name worth watching.
Why Walker Kessler Makes Sense for the Celtics
Kessler’s profile checks nearly every box Boston values in a big man. At 7 feet tall, he’s among the best young rim protectors in the league, averaging 2.4 blocks per game last season while anchoring Utah’s defense.
He plays within his role — defending, rebounding, and staying disciplined — all without demanding touches. It’s the kind of game that would seamlessly fit within Joe Mazzulla’s defense-first rotations.
Financially, he’s also appealing. Kessler’s current deal pays just $4.9 million this season, making him one of the league’s best values at his position.
But beneath the surface, there might be tension brewing. When asked about his future during Jazz Media Day, Kessler admitted to being “a little frustrated.”
“I’m definitely a little frustrated,” Kessler told Andy Larsen. “As long as I have a Utah Jazz jersey on, I will play winning basketball.”
Those comments don’t sound like someone completely at ease — and in a league where availability often starts with unhappiness, that’s something Brad Stevens will be paying attention to.
Why the Fit Works for Boston
If there’s one thing the Celtics don’t have, it’s a long-term defensive anchor. Queta and Garza bring energy, but neither projects as a starting-caliber center.
Kessler, on the other hand, has already shown he can anchor a defense. His instincts as a rim protector and rebounder would give Boston the interior stability it lost when Horford departed for Golden State.
At 23, Kessler also fits the timeline of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, making him a potential piece for Boston’s next core — not just a short-term patch.
If Utah hesitates on a new contract next summer, the Celtics could be perfectly positioned to pounce.
Weighing the Risk and Reward
For Boston, any move of this kind comes down to balance. Kessler will be due for a sizable extension, and Brad Stevens will need to decide whether committing long-term money to another young big aligns with the team’s flexibility plan.
Still, the upside is hard to ignore. Kessler is exactly the kind of defensive-minded, high-IQ player who thrives in Boston’s system. And if his price remains reasonable, it’s the kind of trade that could solidify the frontcourt for years to come.
What Could Come Next for the Celtics
The Celtics rarely rush into midseason deals, but if Danny Ainge makes Kessler available — and the asking price is fair — Boston could quickly enter the conversation.
They’ve already got the scoring and wings to compete. What they need now is a steady, long-term presence at the five.
Walker Kessler might just be that missing piece.
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