Jazz avoided Pistons’ Jalen Duren mistake by being open to Walker Kessler trade

Writer Swoosh Shrestha argues that the Utah Jazz managed Walker Kessler's contract situation more effectively than the Detroit Pistons handled Jalen Duren's extension. While Detroit endured prolonged negotiations before signing Duren to a five-year, $200 million contract, Utah avoided drawn-out talks by actively fielding trade offers for Kessler.

The article notes that the Jazz traded Kessler for two unprotected future first-round picks and two pick swaps. Shrestha suggests Detroit's extended standoff limited their offseason flexibility, contending the Pistons could have gained more leverage by pursuing potential sign-and-trade options.