Is Walker Kessler about to break out for the Utah Jazz?

It was just one game, but it was a fantastic one.

After an impressive rookie season that landed him third in ROY voting, Walker Kessler had a disappointing sophomore season that left a lot of fans in doubt of what he would become for the Utah Jazz. Playing almost identical minutes, Kessler went down in PPG, RPG, and FG%, The downward trend ended up losing him his starting role to John Collins.

Fast forward to this season and we’re already seeing something different.

Again, it’s one game, but Kessler punished Zach Edey and nearly helped lead the Jazz to a tank spoiler surprise victory.

Look at these numbers from basketball reference:

So much of last season seemed to stem from Kessler’s mentality. If he just played with more force and attitude he could have had a much more impactful season. It is very clear that’s what it will take this season also. If Kessler can just come out with confidence and force, there’s no reason he can’t solidify himself as a major part of the Jazz’s future. If he falls back into the passive play of last season, it could mean a lot of trade rumors and a question mark for the future. It all comes down to Kessler. Not many players get an opportunity like this, it would be a shame if Kessler didn’t take advantage.