The Utah Jazz will be without starting center Walker Kessler for at least the next two weeks. The 22-year-old is dealing with an ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) sprain in his left elbow.
During the Jazz’s season-opening game versus the Sacramento Kings, Kessler hurt his left elbow. The injury was diagnosed by MRI testing after Kessler continued to play and experienced discomfort. Rest with non-contact activities has been recommended to accelerate his recovery process.
Kessler will be re-evaluated in two weeks. He’s averaging 8.3 points, 7.9 rebounds and 2.1 blocks this season while shooting 54.9% from the field, 33.3% from beyond the arc and 61.5% from the free-throw line. The Jazz are 2-6 through their first eight games.
Kessler had a terrific rookie season for the Jazz. He averaged 9.2 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.3 blocks in 74 games and made the All-Rookie First Team. The Atlanta native recorded 20 double-doubles and was third in the NBA in blocks (173) and fourth in blocks per game.
The Jazz are not expected to make the playoffs this season, but it’s still tough to see Kessler go down with an injury. He has already established himself as one of the top young defenders in the NBA.
Kessler has 190 blocks and 26 steals in 82 games. He has career averages of 9.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.3 steals and 2.3 blocks.
The Jazz will need newcomer John Collins and All-Star Lauri Markkanen to step up while Kessler is out.
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