Walker Kessler leaves game for concussion evaluation during Utah Jazz match

On Sunday, April 2, Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler suffered a head injury during their game against the Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The rookie center was hit on the chin by friendly fire from Jazzman Talen Horton-Tucker, leading to his early exit from the game.

Following the injury, Kessler was taken to the locker room for a concussion evaluation. The Jazz later ruled him out for the remainder of the contest. At the time of his departure, the Jazz were trailing 71-55 to the Nets. Kessler ended the game with six (3-5 field goals) and eight rebounding in just 22 minutes of action. Having a strong rookie campaign, the Auburn product is averaging 9.2 points per game on 72.1 percent hitting. In addition, over his 23.0 minutes of playing time, he has been producing 8.4 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 2.4 blocks, and 0.4 steals. This year, Kessler has participated in 74 matches.

The Jazz have yet to provide any updates on Kessler's condition or his expected timeline for return. Head injuries are taken very seriously in the NBA, and the team will want to ensure that Kessler is fully recovered before he returns to the court. The loss of Kessler could be a significant blow to the Jazz, who are currently sitting in second place in the Western Conference with a record of 49-26. The team has been performing well lately, winning six of their last ten games, and will need to maintain their momentum as they head into the playoffs.

Kessler has been an integral part of the Jazz's success this season, providing a solid presence in the paint on both ends of the court. His absence could be felt, particularly on defense, where he has been averaging 2.4 blocks per game.

The Jazz will need to rely on their other big men, including Rudy Gobert and Hassan Whiteside, to pick up the slack in Kessler's absence. Gobert, in particular, has been having an outstanding season, averaging 14.3 points, 13.4 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game. Whiteside has also been a valuable contributor off the bench, averaging 8.1 points and 6.4 rebounds in just 15.4 minutes per game. As the playoffs approach, the Jazz will be looking to make a deep run and compete for the NBA championship. While the loss of Kessler is a setback, the team has the depth and talent to overcome it and continue their winning ways. Fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on Kessler's condition and will be hoping for a speedy recovery for the promising young center.

In conclusion, the injury to Walker Kessler is a setback for the Utah Jazz, as they rely on the rookie center's strong presence on both ends of the court. While the extent of his concussion is not yet clear, the team will undoubtedly monitor his recovery closely to ensure his long-term health and well-being. Kessler's absence will also provide an opportunity for other players on the team to step up and contribute in his absence. The Jazz will look to regroup and continue their push for the playoffs as the regular season winds down.