Elite shot-blocking center whose defensive dominance and winning results at Utah made him one of the most impactful young big men in the NBA.
Walker Kessler was born in Dunwoody, Georgia on 8 August 2001. An imposing 7ft 1in center with extraordinary shot-blocking instincts and elite rim protection, Kessler has developed into one of the most dominant defensive centers in the NBA despite only entering the league in 2022. Selected 22nd overall in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves (with rights traded to Utah Jazz), he immediately led the league in blocks per 36 minutes and has sustained that dominance. His combination of size, timing and positioning make him a genuine defensive anchor. His offensive game is limited but he is an efficient finisher around the basket and an excellent lob target. His development into one of the league's most feared shot-blockers so quickly made him one of the 2022 Draft's best values.
Elite shot-blocking ability and defensive presence
How They Played
Defensive anchor, shot-blocker, rim protector
Lasting Impact
Promising young center with exceptional rim protection skills
NBA blocks leader per 36 min (rookie season)
He led the NBA in blocks per 36 minutes in his first season and has been one of the most dominant defensive centers in the league, immediately establishing himself as one of the best values of the 2022 Draft.
Did You Know?Career Honours
- NBA blocks leader per 36 min (rookie season)