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At the NBA combine in Chicago, the Utah Jazz interviewed centers Zach Edey (Purdue) and Donovan Clingan (UConn). When it was reported that the Jazz had interviewed these players, some fans wondered what it meant for Walker Kessler, the young prospect already on the Jazz roster.
Some speculated it indicated the Jazz might be considering moving on from Kessler or that it reflected doubts about his future. However, it’s not that deep. Even after Kessler’s standout rookie season, the Jazz interviewed center Dereck Lively at the 2023 combine, simply aiming to assess the best available talent in the draft pool.
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The Jazz remain invested in Kessler’s future. They are also focused on assembling a well-rounded roster for future contention, which requires more than one center. With roster changes inevitable due to deals, growth, injuries, etc., the Jazz need to do due diligence across all positions.
The Jazz have also interviewed point guards and forwards, which doesn’t imply losing hope in players like Keyonte George or Lauri Markkanen.
Moreover, there’s a clear lack of solid wing players on the current roster. The Jazz are evaluating many wing players in this draft, and sources indicate they are closely monitoring high-level wings in the 2025 draft.
Ultimately, the Jazz interviewing centers at the combine doesn’t mean they’ve given up on Kessler or anyone else.
Purdue center Zach Edey reacts after a basket against UConn during the NCAA championship game, Monday, April 8, 2024, in Glendale, Ariz. The Utah Jazz interviewed Edey during this week’s NBA combine. | Brynn Anderson, Associated Press
New with the Jazz
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My 13-year-old golden retriever, Khaleesi, was diagnosed with cancer a little over a year ago. She was only expected to live happily for a couple of months but lasted much longer without pain. Sadly, a couple of weeks ago, it was clear it was time to say goodbye. Making that decision was incredibly difficult, but I never wanted her to suffer, so choosing peaceful euthanasia was better than waiting for things to get really ugly.
She was truly my best friend, and I miss her so much it hurts. I don’t write this to make anyone feel sad or sorry for me. I want to remind everyone to pay a little extra attention to your pets. Give them extra cuddles and treats and spend time playing with them.
The bond with a pet is unique and special, and I don’t think anyone ever loses a pet and thinks, “I’m satisfied with the time I had and gave them the correct number of hugs and kisses.” We always wish we had just a little more time, a few more belly rubs, one more scratch behind the ears. So, this is just a reminder to love your pets extra hard.
From the archives
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Grading the Jazz: Veteran guards stepped up for the rebuilding Jazz in 2023-24
Grading the Jazz: Newcomers Darius Bazley and Kenneth Lofton Jr.
Extra points
If Jaxson Robinson withdraws from NBA draft, here’s where insiders think he’ll land (Deseret News)
Grading the Jazz: John Collins needed time to adapt to a new situation (Deseret News)
Sizing up Jazz’s 2023 first-round picks. Here’s what we learned (Deseret News)
Mock drafts are split on who the Jazz could take with the 10th pick (KSL.com)
Around the league
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Boston Celtics reach Eastern Conference Finals, send Cavs home.
Up Next: NBA Playoffs
May 18 | 6 p.m. MDT | Game 6 | Oklahoma City Thunder @ Dallas Mavericks | ABC
May 19 | TBD | Game 7 | Minnesota Timberwolves @ Denver Nuggets | TBD
May 19 | 1:30 p.m. MDT | Game 7* | Indiana Pacers @ New York Knicks | ABC
May 20 | 6:30 p.m. MDT | Game 7* | Dallas Mavericks @ Oklahoma City Thunder | TNT
May 21 | 6 p.m. MDT | Game 1 | Boston Celtics vs. TBD | ESPN
