Walker Kessler Addressed the Jazz Contract Noise. Here’s What He Said.

Walker Kessler finally spoke up about that $140 million contract talk. And no, he didn’t confirm he’s miserable in Utah.

The restricted free agent center took to Instagram to shut down the idea that he’s unhappy with the Jazz or their offer. It was a direct response to the chatter that’s been floating around since word leaked that Utah had put a big number on the table.

“I’ve seen what’s being said, and I want it to be clear that I have always wanted to be here — I love this city, these fans, my teammates, my coaches — that’s real to me. You don’t grow roots where you don’t want to be,” Kessler wrote.

That doesn’t mean he’s signed yet. He’s not. Kessler is a restricted free agent, so Utah can match any offer sheet he signs with another team. But the clock is ticking and nothing is official.

The Lakers are lurking. They’ve got cap space and a need for a young rim protector who actually scores. Kessler averaged 14.4 points and 10.8 rebounds last season while shooting over 70 percent from the floor. That was in just five games before a torn labrum in his left shoulder ended his season early.

So the injury history is real. So is the upside. A 7-footer who can finish around the rim and block shots at an elite level doesn’t grow on trees. The Lakers know it. A few other teams probably do too.

Right now there’s no deal in place. Kessler could still sign the Jazz offer. Or he could let another team set the price and force Utah to match. That’s the game with restricted free agency. It gets messy when a team like L.A. decides to throw a wrench in things.

Kessler’s Instagram post was meant to calm things down. It worked in the sense that it cleared up the narrative that he wants out. But it didn’t actually move the contract situation forward. The Jazz still have work to do. And the longer this drags, the more likely another team steps in.

For now, Kessler is still a Jazz player. But the situation is fluid. One offer sheet could change everything. And if the Lakers are serious, this isn’t over by a long shot.