Is Walker Kessler Moving Toward Becoming A Stretch 5?

Walker Kessler, the 7'1" center for the Utah Jazz, has quickly become one of the most intriguing young players in the NBA. Drafted 22nd overall, Kessler has shown flashes of brilliance on both ends of the floor, leading many to wonder if he has the potential to become a stretch 5.

Defining the Stretch 5

A stretch 5 is a center who can not only protect the rim and rebound but also stretch the floor by shooting from beyond the arc. This type of player is highly valued in today's NBA, as it allows teams to play a more versatile and up-tempo style of basketball.

Some of the most notable stretch 5s in the league include Joel Embiid, Nikola Jokic, and Karl-Anthony Towns. These players have all proven that they can be effective scorers from both inside and outside the paint.

Kessler's Skill Set

Kessler has all the tools necessary to become a stretch 5. He is a skilled shooter with a smooth stroke, and he has shown the ability to make shots from deep.

In addition to his shooting ability, Kessler is also a capable rebounder and defender. He has a long wingspan and good instincts, which allow him to contest shots and grab boards.

Evidence of Kessler's Progress

There is growing evidence that Kessler is moving toward becoming a stretch 5. In his rookie season, he shot 32.5% from three-point range, which is a respectable mark for a center.

Kessler has also shown进步in his rebounding and defense. He averaged 5.5 rebounds per game in his rookie season, and he ranked among the top 10 rookies in blocks per game.

Challenges to Becoming a Stretch 5

While Kessler has shown the potential to become a stretch 5, there are still some challenges that he will need to overcome.

One challenge is that Kessler is still relatively thin for an NBA center. He needs to add some weight and strength in order to be more effective in the post.

Another challenge is that Kessler needs to improve his footwork. He can sometimes be slow to slide his feet laterally, which can make him vulnerable to drives from smaller players.

Conclusion

Walker Kessler has the potential to become one of the best stretch 5s in the NBA. He has all the necessary skills, and he has shown steady improvement in his rookie season.

If Kessler can continue to develop his skills and overcome the challenges that he faces, he could become a major weapon for the Utah Jazz and a force to be reckoned with in the NBA.