The Wizards have informed interested teams, such as those eyeing Kyle Kuzma, that they plan to keep the experienced forward beyond the upcoming deadline, according to a report by Marc Stein.
Despite being one of the NBA’s struggling teams, the Wizards have been holding out for a substantial offer for Kuzma, who has been a subject of trade talks due to the team’s poor performance. Potential suitors like Dallas and Sacramento have been active in the search for a power forward, but Washington’s demands, reportedly seeking multiple first-round picks, have deterred any immediate deals.
Moreover, there is no pressing need for the Wizards to part ways with Kuzma, given that he is only in the first year of a four-year contract he signed last summer. This contract features a decreasing salary structure, meaning his cap hit will decrease from $25.6M this season to $19.4M by 2026-27, making him a more attractive trade asset in the future.
Stein’s report also indicates that Kuzma has not expressed a desire for a change of scenery, indicating a preference to stay with the Wizards for now. This sentiment played a role in the team’s decision to retain him.
Despite the Wizards’ struggles with the second-worst record in the league (9-41), Kuzma has been enjoying a strong season individually, posting career-high averages in points (21.9) and assists (4.2) per game, along with a field goal percentage of 45.5%, which is close to his career best.
The Mavericks, previously linked with Kuzma, are now reportedly pursuing Hornets forward P.J. Washington instead.
