5 Kyle Kuzma trades the Wizards should consider this offseason

The Washington Wizards entered a total rebuild in the 2023 offseason when they traded Kristaps Porzingis and Bradley Beal. It was long overdue as Washington haven’t had a winning record since 2018. They have a few pieces but are in the early stages of finding young talent. The second overall pick in the 2024 draft will be a key addition to their young nucleus.

The Wizards front office has some difficult decisions to make this offseason. Do they sign Tyus Jones long-term? If not, who replaces him at point guard? Washington also has to decide who is part of their core and how to maximize their rebuild. It should put this veteran forward firmly on the trade block.

They shopped Kyle Kuzma before the deadline and nearly traded him to the Mavericks (subscription required). He decided to stay put. Kuz does not become a free agent until 2027, but turns 29 this summer and will be exiting his prime as the Wizards are ready to contend. The 6'8 forward is expected to be on the market again, and these are deals worth taking a hard look at.

5. Kings go for Kuz

The Kings were rumored to be interested in Kuzma before the deadline and will need scoring if Malik Monk departs in free agency. Does it force Sacramento to get aggressive? They have Keegan Murray and Harrison Barnes locked in at the forward spots, so acquiring Kuz likely means moving on from HB.

Barnes is a superior shooter, but Kuzma offers more scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. It could be just what the Kings need to get back to the playoffs after a disappointing season. Washington should have interest in this deal.

The Wizards could keep Barnes as a leader of their young roster or flip him for more draft capital. The 6’8 forward saw his minutes and production dip this season, but it is still difficult to find versatile options with his size. There will be interest, and the extra jolt of capital could be the deciding factor for Washington president Michael Winger, who worked under Sam Presti in Oklahoma City for years.

The Kings will not have the only offer, and it could be a surprise team like the Hornets who swoop in with a package that is too good to refuse.