5 Moves Wizards should make after re-signing Kyle Kuzma

The Washington Wizards brought back Kyle Kuzma on a four-year deal to open free agency. It was a bit of a surprise as the franchise is headed into a rebuild. Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis are gone, but Washington decided to keep Kuzma to play next to Jordan Poole and Tyus Jones in the nation’s capital.

The Wizards pulled off a late-night trade that sent Monte Morris to Detroit for a second-round draft pick and a trade exception. It helped Washington clear their glut of guards, but the franchise is not done. They are going to further teardown their roster in an attempt to secure a high lottery pick in 2024. The Wizards owe their selection to the Knicks next summer with a top 12 protection.

There is a ton of untapped potential in Washington, but can the Wizards grasp it? What should the franchise do after signing Kuzma and trading away Morris?

Moves Washington Wizards should make after re-signing Kyle Kuzma

5. Make a decision on Deni Avdija

The Wizards drafted Avdija ninth overall in 2020, and the 6’9 forward has steadily improved. He is not going to be a superstar, but the 22-year-old averaged 9.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 0.9 steals in 26.6 minutes per game last season. Those are solid numbers and the pathway is clear for Avdija to be the team’s starting small forward.

He is set to make $6.2 million next season in the final year of his rookie contract, so the Wizards have a decision to make. Do they extend him now or wait for him to become a restricted free agent next summer? The smart business would be getting a deal done immediately, but can the two sides agree? Washington does not want to risk some team coming in with a massive offer and forcing the Wizards to lose him with zero return.

If they cannot work out a new contract, Michael Winger and the front office should explore the trade market for Deni Avdija.