Utah Jazz: Kyrylo Fesenko still talking to Rockets

SALT LAKE CITY — Kyrylo Fesenko will likely commit to sign his qualifying offer with the Utah Jazz tonight if he doesn't receive an acceptable offer from the Houston Rockets by then, a source has confirmed with the Deseret News.

The 7-foot-1 center is looking to receive a two-year, $4 million deal from Houston. If that doesn't happen, the source said Fesenko will inform Jazz general manager Kevin O'Connor that "they'll sign Monday." The fourth-year player has had a $1.1 million, one-year qualifying offer sitting on the table since June.

Playing time, not money, has been Fesenko's biggest concern during this negotiation process, the source said.

Houston has shown the most interest of the multiple NBA teams that have engaged in talks with Fesenko's agent. The Rockets told Fesenko's agent "they were very impressed with him" after his recent visit and workout in Houston, according to the source.

Cleveland showed interest earlier this week but decided to pass on the Ukrainian, who spent much of the summer playing with his national team.

The Jazz will hold media day Monday and begin formal training camp Tuesday at the Zions Bank Basketball Center.

Fesenko would have to sign his qualifying offer before participating. The restricted free agent's offer expires Oct. 1.

e-mail: jody@desnews.com