5 Kyle Kuzma trades the Wizards should consider this offseason
By Tyler Watts
3. Jazz become surprise buyers
Utah is in a rebuild but is winning too many games. They had 37 victories in 2023 and 31 last season. The Jazz select tenth in the 2024 NBA Draft and are in danger of getting stuck in the middle. They will continue to develop Taylor Hendricks, Walker Kessler, Keyonte George, and all their young talents, but can Utah get back into the playoff mix?
They have Lauri Markkanen and some talented veterans on their roster. The Jazz should tear things down further this offseason or try to compete. If they decide to improve, Utah may try to trade Jordan Clarkson. It opens up more run for George and could enhance their defense. Kyle Kuzma offers more scoring and size as Utah tries to win.
Kuz to Utah
Utah could create a strong frontcourt with Markkanen, Kuzma, Kessler, Hendricks, and John Collins. They finished 18th in offensive rating last season and need a boost on that end.
The Wizards could flip Clarkson for more draft capital. Trading for a player with value and a pick will allow Washington to maximize their return. Look at the Portland Trail Blazers. They got Jrue Holiday and draft capital in return for Damian Lillard before flipping Holiday to Boston for talent and even more selections. This could be Washington’s best avenue for that type of return.
The Wizards had a deal in place before the deadline before Kuzma declined. Do not be surprised to see them return to talks with that franchise.