<p>Kessler is the Jazz’s defensive cornerstone, a Colossus in the paint whose shot-blocking and rim protection anchor fantasy squads with reliable blocks and solid field-goal efficiency.</p><p>Offense centers on controlled rim finishes and occasional improved scoring; the key fantasy takeaway is floor-safe defense with potential upside if he expands offensive touch and pace-dependent opportunities.</p>

Kessler is framed as a high-reward option in a tank-heavy Utah lineup. If minutes hold, his floor in rebounds and blocks supports a top-60 per-game value, with upside if usage supports extra counting stats. The Jazz’s rest strategy adds risk, but a healthy run could return a reliable total-value season despite a perceived development arc.

Kessler anchors the frontcourt for Utah, shaping the defensive ceiling and rotation depth. Tonje's two-way path will hinge on Kessler's health and foul trouble, with Kessler's presence potentially limiting Tonje's NBA minutes but creating room for Stars development down the line.

Kessler's rim protection anchors a defense-minded frontcourt, and his presence shapes lineups as Utah balances space with paint efficiency. Fantasy managers will watch his foul-free ceiling, blocks, and how quickly he translates mobility and timing into consistent production behind the scoring load on Markkanen and co.

Walker Kessler is a promising player who showed potential last season. However, his playing time may be managed carefully, affecting his fantasy viability.