Kyle Filipowski Steps Up for Utah Jazz Amid Walker Kessler’s Absence

Kyle Filipowski, the rookie center for the Utah Jazz, is set to see increased playing time as the team faces the Phoenix Suns in the Emirates NBA Cup. This comes after Walker Kessler, one of the Jazz’s most consistent players, was ruled out due to hip soreness following a Tuesday morning shootaround.

Filipowski recently made a significant impact in the Jazz’s victory over the San Antonio Spurs, recording eight points, five rebounds, and six assists. His performance is crucial as the Jazz navigate through the early stages of the NBA Cup without key players like Kessler and Taylor Hendricks, who is out with a fibular fracture.

The Emirates NBA Cup features all 30 NBA franchises competing in pool play, with the Jazz grouped alongside the Suns, the Los Angeles Lakers, the San Antonio Spurs, and the Oklahoma City Thunder. The games played during this cup will count towards the teams’ regular season records, and the winners will advance to a single-elimination tournament with a significant monetary prize for the winning team.

With Kessler averaging 9.2 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game, Filipowski’s contribution will be vital in maintaining the team’s performance. Keyonte George, another key player, is listed as probable with a foot sprain, adding to the team’s injury concerns.