Jazz executives: The team is embracing youthfulness with full efforts, Walter + Kessler is the cornerstone of the future

Recently, the well-known sports reporter Keith Smith interviewed a Jazz management member who revealed that the Jazz is embracing youthfulness in an all-round way, and this concept has become the core driving force behind their many operations this summer.

The Jazz have traded or abandoned several veterans over the past few months, including John Collins, Kelly Olynick, Jordan Clarkson and Colin Sexton. Their departure gave the team's young men - such as Kionte George, Taylor Hendricks, Brice Sensabaugh, and rookies Ace Bailey, Walter Clayton Jr. more room to play and grow.

In response, the Jazz executive told Smith: We do not want older players to buy playing time for the next contract, and we do not want young players to feel dissatisfied with veterans who do not belong to the team's future plans to occupy the opportunity to play. This line of thinking drives most of our decisions in the summer. "Under this line of thinking, the Jazz is very optimistic about the growth potential of Bailey and Walter, especially the latter. The Jazz executive said: "Walter is exactly the type of player we want, he is a leader. From day one of the training camp, he will show his leadership. We've seen his style in the summer league, and it's not pretending. Just ask any University of Florida coach or staff and they will tell you: Walter is the one who really leads them to the championship. Not only on the court, but also in the training and locker room. We especially appreciate his point. ”

Although the Jazz are implementing a youth strategy, they also face key decisions for important players who still have contracts in the current roster. For example, center Walker Kessler is currently eligible for early renewal of the rookie contract. Although the two sides have not reached an agreement, the executive said it was "intentional".

"We certainly hope to reach a contract renewal agreement with Walker," he said. "We have a very flexible salary structure now, after all (Laury Markanen) is our only veteran with a long-term contract. This is also crucial for Walker's future, as he is likely to be the next player in our team to sign a long-term contract. We must be highly sensitive and forward-looking when formulating current and future lineup plans. ”

Kesler, 24, is about to usher in his fourth NBA season. He played 58 games for the Jazz last season, averaging 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game. He performed stably and was the mainstay of the team's defensive system.