The noise around the Washington Wizards as of late has seemingly been focused on the NBA trade deadline and the NBA Draft considering the team's losing ways throughout the season.
Entering a matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday, there was little to no expectations for Washington to keep this game close, let alone win. However, the Wizards seem to have other plans when they pulled off an upset knocking off the T-Wolves on the road 105-103.
With the trade deadline less than a week away, the team saw one of their most likely trade candidates rise to the occasion for what could very well be his final time in a Wizards uniform.
Kyle Kuzma leads the way in Wizards win over Timberwolves
In the win, Kyle Kuzma seemed to take it upon himself to prove to the team and the fans supporting the Wizards that he's more than just used goods as the February 6th deadline approaches.
The Utah product put together arguably his best game of the season leading Washington to a road upset with 31 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists, while shooting 54.2% from field goal range (13/24 FG) and 50% from beyond the arc (5/10 3PT).
Kuzma has visibly and publicly grown frustrated with the Wizards losing woes this season which has put him in position to almost be a lock to be moved ahead of the trade deadline.
And while he may not be looking to help Washington in any way before he's moved, the talented forward's recent outing could've boosted his value on the trade market after putting together one of the worst seasons in his career as he continues to battle injuries and inconsistency.
In addition to Kuzma, two other trade candidates for the Wizards put together solid outings on Saturday as well.
Jordan Poole
Jordan Poole is another name that could be on the move ahead of Thursday's deadline. Despite that, the guard managed to put together a respectable night knocking down 6 of his 13 field goals, including 4 threes on his way to a 19 points night.
In addition, the guard totaled 4 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 blocks in the win.
Jonas Valanciunas
Jonas Valanciunas is yet another hot name on the trade market but that hasn't stopped the veteran from serving as a consistent and reliable front court option for the Wizards. Against the Timberwolves, Valanciunas finished with 13 points and 10 rebounds, while shooting over 50% from the field.
The Wizards return to action on Monday against the Charlotte Hornets.