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Analyzing NBA contract implications

I need to respond to a news snippet about Walker Kessler seeking a long-term contract over $120 million with the Utah Jazz reportedly unwilling to meet that demand. The user might want elaboration or context around this. I’ll provide a summary and discuss relevant factors like salary cap rules, comparables from other players, and the timeline of Kessler’s career. Since he was drafted in 2022, he’s entering his fourth season in the upcoming 2025-26 season.Clarifying Kessler's contract details

Okay, let's clarify Walker Kessler's seasons: he was a rookie in 2022-23, so the 2025-26 season will be his fourth. As the 22nd pick in the first round, he falls under the rookie scale with a 2+2 team option. Typically, extensions for first-round picks are considered after the third year, making him eligible for an extension in the summer of 2025 that would kick in for the 2026-27 season.Evaluating Kessler's contract situation

The news indicates that Walker Kessler is seeking a long-term deal over $120 million, but the Jazz seem unwilling to offer that. He's eligible for a rookie-scale extension in summer 2025, but if he isn't extended by then, he’ll become a restricted free agent in July 2026. I'd want to clarify with the user whether they’re looking for a source or an analysis. I’ll provide insights without claiming up-to-date knowledge, outlining his strengths like elite rim protection, including stats through his career.Analyzing comparable contracts

I need to look at comparable contracts to give context for Walker Kessler's potential 120 million deal. Nic Claxton signed a 4-year, 100 million contract in 2024, while Isaiah Hartenstein also signed a 3-year deal for 87 million with the Thunder. Other relevant contracts include Jakob Poeltl at 4 years for 80 million and Jarrett Allen at 5 years for $100 million. The center market seems a bit depressed, so Kessler's contract could be on the high side, especially with the Jazz in a rebuilding phase.Considering Kessler's contract options

The Jazz have some uncertainty with their timeline and young centers, including possibly Taylor Hendricks. Walker Kessler will be a restricted free agent in 2026, which gives the Jazz matching rights, but there's a risk regarding player happiness. I can propose various contract frameworks, like a 4-year deal between 80 million and 96 million with incentives or a 3+1 team option. I'll check in with the user about wanting a source link for further analysis on whether $120 million is reasonable while keeping it concise.