Walker Kessler Is Turning Back the NBA Clock

Walker Kessler, the Utah Jazz's promising center, is making waves in the NBA with his exceptional defense and rebounding prowess. His impact on the court has sparked discussions about his potential to revolutionize the league's approach to the center position and even turn back the basketball clock.

Redefining the Center Position

Traditionally, centers were dominant forces in the paint, relying on their size and strength to score at will. However, the league has witnessed a shift towards smaller, more versatile players in recent years, leaving many to question the relevance of the traditional center.

Kessler's emergence challenges this trend. Standing at 7'1" with a wingspan of 7'8", he possesses the physical attributes of a classic center. However, his game extends beyond the paint. Kessler is an exceptional rim protector, averaging 2.3 blocks per game, and his agility and timing allow him to contest shots from anywhere in the paint. Furthermore, his rebounding abilities are equally impressive, with an average of 10.1 rebounds per game.

Defensive Anchor

Kessler's defensive prowess has transformed the Jazz's defense. By deterring opponents from driving into the paint, he frees up his teammates to focus on perimeter defense. This has resulted in a significant decrease in opponents' field goal percentage within the restricted area.

Kessler's defensive capabilities have also impacted the league as a whole. Opposing teams have begun to adjust their offensive strategies, avoiding drives into the paint and instead opting for three-point attempts. This shift has led to a noticeable decline in points scored in the paint across the league.

Revival of the Post

In addition to his defensive contributions, Kessler's presence on the court has revitalized the post game. With his back to the basket, he is an unstoppable force, using his size and strength to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. This has been particularly effective in creating easy baskets for his guards, who can drive and kick to an open Kessler in the paint.

The resurgence of the post game has also had a broader impact on the league. Teams are now recognizing the value of having a dominant center who can score in the paint and create opportunities for others. This is leading to a renewed emphasis on developing true centers, rather than versatile big men.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite his impressive performances, Kessler's development is not without challenges. The modern NBA is still heavily reliant on three-point shooting, and teams will continue to prioritize players who can space the floor.

Furthermore, Kessler's offensive game is still a work in progress. While he has shown flashes of brilliance in the post, he needs to improve his finishing and expand his range to become a complete scoring threat.

Conclusion

Walker Kessler is a rising star in the NBA, and his impact on the court is undeniable. His exceptional defense and rebounding have transformed the Utah Jazz and forced teams to rethink their offensive strategies. By redefining the center position and reviving the post game, Kessler is turning back the NBA clock and opening up new possibilities for the league.

While challenges remain in his development, Kessler's potential is limitless. If he continues to improve his offensive game and maintain his defensive dominance, he could become one of the most dominant players in the NBA and lead a resurgence of the traditional center position.