Auburn standout, will miss the rest of the 2025–26 NBA season after suffering a torn labrum in his left shoulder. The team confirmed that he will undergo surgery to repair the injury.
The setback comes at an especially uncertain time for him. The 23-year-old big man did not receive a contract extension during the offseason, fueling speculation that the Jazz could explore trade options down the road. Now, with his season over, Kessler’s pending restricted free agency next summer becomes even more complicated — and the injury could affect his market value heading into 2026.
Before going down, Kessler was enjoying one of his best stretches as a pro, averaging 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game while shooting an efficient 70.3% from the field. He had missed Utah’s last two contests with what was initially described as shoulder bursitis before further testing revealed the more serious tear.
The Jazz, who have started the season 3–4, will now turn to Jusuf Nurkić to fill Kessler’s spot in the starting lineup.
Kessler’s journey to the NBA began at Auburn, where he starred under Bruce Pearl alongside Jabari Smith Jr. during the 2021–22 season. The Jazz selected him with the 22nd overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft after he transferred from North Carolina. This season marked his fourth year in the league.