As the NBA trade deadline approaches, the Washington Wizards continue to be a team to monitor as they have the pieces to become one of the top sellers come February.
The Wizards have multiple veterans that could immediately impact any playoff teams, and with their league-worst record of 6-38, Washington has absolutely no motive to maintain their roster at the deadline.
With veterans such as Kyle Kuzma, Jonas Valanciunas, Malcolm Brogdon and even Jordan Poole at their disposal, the Wizards could be in line to make a big time roster shake up in the next couple of weeks. And while general manager Will Dawkins is ultimately callng the shots, one of the team's top trade assets has seemingly put his cards on the table with recent comments of frustration.
Kyle Kuzma's recent comments hint towards a departure from D.C.
Kuzma nearly was traded last season at the trade deadline before the forward opted to decline the option on the table after the Wizards brass let the Utah product dictate his futuure. Entering this season, the 29-year-old seemed committed to help lead Washington's rebuild, but after their historically bad start, Kuzma is evidently growing frustrated at the position he's in.
In a recent interview with The Atheltic's Josh Robinson, here's what Kuzma had to say about the upcoming deadline:
"We'll see how it goes. I don't know. I didn't think last year was the right time (for a trade) after signing the deal (four-year extension in 2023). That was kind of a more of a last-year thing. I have't had conversations (with Wizards management). I haven't even talked about the deadline, haven't talked about being traded. So, this is really the first time I'm really talking about it."Kyle Kuzma
Although those comments don't truly illustrate Kuzma's frustrations behind closed doors, the versatile forward shared more light on his mindset as he continues to be one of the oldest players on a rebuilding team.
"I think today I just decided to be myself and not really try to fit into everything that we're doing here. Just being more assertive, demanding the ball, not going out there and trying to let people develop. Just playing my game."Kyle Kuzma
For a veteran on a rebuilding team that essentially re-signed in Washington to help lead a rebuild, it sure doesn't sound like someone willing to stick around. Kuzma's comments about not trying to "fit in" and not going out there "trying to let people develop" seems to put the writing on the wall as his time in D.C. seems to be nearing an end.
Kuzma is averaging 14.6 points, 5.7 rebounds and 2.7 assists on the season, while shooting 42.3% from field goal range and a career-low 28% from three. Nonetheless, a change of scenery could be what both sides need, especially Kuzma who seems to desperately seek a fresh start.