Kessler Out, Jazz Gain Future Assets | Utah Jazz News

Utah Jazz News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 2, 2026 · 1m

Walker Kessler is headed to the Lakers in a sign-and-trade deal that shocks Jazz fans—despite his expressed desire to stay. Utah shipped him for the Lakers’ entire future draft assets, prioritizing long-term rebuilding over retaining a key player. Though Kessler will actually earn less in LA due to taxes, the move underscores the cold calculus of NBA business: injury history, lack of All-Star status, and team strategy outweighed personal loyalty. The Jazz now look ahead with newfound draft capital, while Kessler begins a new chapter in Hollywood—both sides moving on, but the Jazz’s roster…