On Tuesday, The Athletics reported that an NBA champion forward Kyle Kuzma was another name that was close to being traded Dallas Mavericks.
The article by Josh Robbins says a deal was in place and was presented to Kuzma by the president of the Wizards Michael Winger. The executive was hesitant about making the trade but ultimately the decision was Kuzma’s.
“Winger presented me with what the trade was…I told him I wanted to stay and continue to build something,” said Kuzma.
The Mavericks were one of the more active teams before the NBA trade deadline with the organization looking to add key pieces to help Luka Doncic push for a deep playoff run.
Kyle Kuzma mentioned that the Wizards offered him a trade to Dallas, but he chose to stay in DC to build something there
“Winger presented me with what the trade was and obviously didn’t want to trade me and kind of left the decision up to me a little bit and asked me what I… pic.twitter.com/nLe3t5VjKg
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 13, 2024
Kuzma’s production has increased since his trade to the Washington Wizards as part of the package that saw Russell Westbrook join the Lakers.
The 6’9″ forward points, rebounds, assists, and minutes have all increased since joining the Wizards. Over three seasons in the capital, Kuzma is averaging 19.9, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game.
The Michigan native’s was also a member of the Los Angeles Lakers 2020 team that went on to win the NBA championship.
The Wizards agreed to a four-year, $90 million guaranteed deal last summer that will see Kuzma contracted with the franchise through the 2027 season. After trading Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis last season, Kuzma will likely be a key part of the organization’s rebuild.
A move to a Luka Doncic-led Mavericks team could have provided an opportunity for Kuzma to challenge for a second NBA title. For now, however, he seems content to stay with Washington and build for the future.
