The Washington Wizards find themselves at a crossroads entering the 2024 offseason. With a mix of promising young talent and seasoned veterans, the team needs to make moves to elevate its status in the Eastern Conference. One player who could play a pivotal role in this reshaping is Kyle Kuzma. Known for his scoring ability and versatility, Kuzma has proven to be a valuable asset. Yet, his trade could bring in the pieces the Wizards need to build a better roster.
The Wizards had a rough 2023-24 season, ending with a 15-67 record, placing them 14th in the Eastern Conference. This performance has landed them the second overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, a prime opportunity to bring in a high-impact young player.
Despite the team’s struggles, Kyle Kuzma had a strong individual season, averaging 22.2 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. His scoring ability, combined with his rebounding and playmaking skills, makes him a valuable trade chip. At 28 years old, Kuzma is in his prime, but his timeline may not align perfectly with the Wizards’ potential rebuild. Trading Kuzma could help the Wizards acquire assets that fit their long-term strategy, while giving Kuzma a chance to compete on a team that’s ready to win now.
1. A Warm Welcome Back To The Lakers
Washington Wizards Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Jalen Hood-Schifino, No. 17 Pick (Lakers)
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Kyle Kuzma
The Wizards had a tough 2023-24 season, finishing with a dismal 15-67 record, placing them 14th in the Eastern Conference. With the second overall pick in the draft, they’re in a prime position to add a top-tier young talent to their roster. Kuzma, despite the team’s struggles, had a solid season, averaging 22.2 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. His performance makes him an attractive trade asset.
The Lakers, aiming for another championship run, finished 7th in the Western Conference with a 47-35 record. D’Angelo Russell, who returned to LA this past season, put up respectable numbers, averaging 18.0 points, 6.3 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game. Jalen Hood-Schifino, a promising young guard, and the 17th overall pick offers the Wizards a mix of immediate and future potential.
By trading Kuzma to the Lakers, the Wizards get a seasoned playmaker in Russell, who can help mentor their young core while still being productive on the court. Hood-Schifino provides youthful energy and potential, fitting well with the team’s long-term plans. The 17th pick adds another opportunity to secure a young prospect to aid in their rebuild.
For the Lakers, Kuzma’s return brings a versatile forward who can score, rebound, and defend, providing immediate impact as they push for another title. This trade offers a win-win scenario, with both teams addressing their respective needs and improving their rosters for the future.
2. The Hawks Would Be A Dangerous Team With Kuzma
Washington Wizards Receive: De’Andre Hunter, AJ Griffin
Atlanta Hawks Receive: Kyle Kuzma
The Hawks had an up-and-down season, finishing 10th in the Eastern Conference with a 36-46 record. However, they hold the first overall pick in the draft, positioning them well for the future. Adding Kuzma to a core that includes Trae Young and Dejounte Murray could make them a formidable team. Kuzma’s versatility as a scorer and defender complements their existing talent, creating a potent trio that can contend in the East.
De’Andre Hunter averaged 15.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, providing solid scoring and defensive skills. His ability to guard multiple positions and hit perimeter shots makes him a valuable addition to the Wizards. On the other hand, AJ Griffin is a young, athletic guard known for his defensive prowess and potential as a shooter. Though his stats are modest with just 2.4 points, 0.9 rebounds, and 0.3 assists in 20 games, his upside is considerable if given a chance to shine.
For the Wizards, acquiring Hunter and Griffin adds youthful energy and potential to their roster. Hunter can immediately contribute with his scoring and defense, while Griffin offers promise for the future. This trade helps the Wizards build a young core that can grow together.
For the Hawks, Kuzma brings versatility and experience. He can score from anywhere on the floor and provides strong rebounding and defense. Pairing him with Trae Young and Dejounte Murray could turn the Hawks into a serious contender in the Eastern Conference. This move is aimed at immediate improvement, making the Hawks more competitive while still having the first overall pick to further strengthen their squad.
3. Another East Team Gets Upgraded With Kyle Kuzma
Washington Wizards Receive: Patrick Williams, Dalen Terry, 2027 First-Round Pick
Chicago Bulls Receive: Kyle Kuzma
The Bulls ended the season 39-43, finishing 9th in the Eastern Conference. Despite a challenging season marked by Zach LaVine’s foot injury in January that sidelined him for the remainder of the season, the Bulls aim to remain competitive as he comes back for the summer. They plan to re-sign DeMar DeRozan in free agency and are optimistic about Lonzo Ball’s return after missing two seasons due to injury. This context sets the stage for a significant roster upgrade.
Patrick Williams averaged 10.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 43 games this season. Despite his physical tools and defensive potential, Williams has struggled to create his own shot, which has lowered his trade value. He will be a restricted free agent (RFA) in the summer, meaning the Wizards will take on his new contract after a Sing and Trade deal. Dalen Terry, young but without much participation, averaged 3.1 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 59 games. While his numbers are modest, Terry is known for his defensive effort, hustle, and potential to develop into a solid rotational player.
Acquiring Williams and Terry brings in youthful potential to Washington. Williams can provide immediate defensive support and has room to grow offensively, while Terry offers depth and future promise. The 2027 first-round pick gives the Wizards another valuable asset for their rebuild.
In the Bulls’ view, Kuzma adds a proven scorer and versatile forward to their lineup. His ability to score from different areas on the court, combined with his rebounding and defense, will help balance the Bulls’ offense and provide much-needed support as LaVine gets going into gears. Kuzma’s presence, alongside DeRozan and the returning Ball, could make the Bulls a more formidable team in the Eastern Conference after missing the playoffs this season.
The trade is beneficial for both sides: the Wizards gain young talent and future assets to aid their rebuild, while the Bulls get a seasoned player who can help them remain competitive and push for higher playoff seeding.
4. A New Look For The Cavs In The Summer
Washington Wizards Receive: Max Strus, Isaac Okoro, 2025 Second-Round Pick (Bucks), 2025 Second-Round Pick
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: Kyle Kuzma
The Cleveland Cavaliers had a strong season, finishing 48-34 and securing the 4th spot in the Eastern Conference. However, their playoff run ended in the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the Boston Celtics. This offseason, the Cavs are focused on enhancing their roster to make a deeper playoff push next year. Recent rumors suggest they are looking to upgrade the roster around Donovan Mitchell, with several players potentially on the block.
Max Strus averaged 11.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game last season. Known for his shooting ability, Strus can stretch the floor and provide valuable scoring off the bench or as a starter. His presence on the Wizards would add much-needed shooting and depth. Isaac Okoro, who averaged 7.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, is primarily known for his defensive prowess. Although he has shown flashes of offensive potential, Okoro’s main value lies in his defensive capabilities. As he enters restricted free agency, the Wizards will have to decide on his future contract, but his potential makes him a significant asset.
Acquiring Strus and Okoro gives the Wizards players with defined roles and room for growth. Strus’s shooting and scoring ability would bolster the Wizards’ offense, while Okoro could develop into a key defensive player with offensive upside. Additionally, the two 2025 second-round picks provide future flexibility and opportunities to add more young talent or leverage in future trades.
Kyle Kuzma’s arrival in Cleveland means an immediate enhancement to their roster. Kuzma’s ability to score, rebound, and defend makes him a versatile player who fits well alongside stars like Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. His presence would alleviate some of the scoring pressure on both backcourt stars, creating a more balanced and potent offense. This addition could push the Cavs into the upper echelon of Eastern Conference contenders.
5. A Fresh Face In Golden State
Washington Wizards Receive: Andrew Wiggins, 2027 First-Round Pick
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: Kyle Kuzma
The Golden State Warriors had a rollercoaster 2023-24 season, ending with a 46-36 record, good enough for the 10th spot in the Western Conference. Despite a strong finish to the regular season, they fell short in the playoffs, prompting the need for roster changes. The Warriors are in a transitional phase, trying to balance their championship core with developing younger talents. With rumors swirling about potential offseason moves, adding a player like Kuzma could provide the scoring and versatility they need to complement their stars.
Andrew Wiggins had an up-and-down season, averaging 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 71 games. Although his stats were somewhat underwhelming compared to previous years, Wiggins remains a valuable two-way player. For the Wizards, acquiring Wiggins and a 2027 first-round pick brings a mix of immediate and future benefits. Wiggins can provide veteran leadership and scoring, while the pick adds a valuable asset for their rebuilding efforts.
Integrating Kuzma into the Warriors’ system could be the change they need. His ability to score from various spots on the floor and defend multiple positions makes him an ideal fit alongside Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. Kuzma’s versatility can alleviate some of the offensive burdens from Curry and Thompson, allowing the Warriors to maintain their high-paced, dynamic style of play while adding more depth to their lineup.
For the Wizards, this trade brings in Wiggins, a former All-Star with plenty of experience, who can help guide the younger players. Additionally, the 2027 first-round pick provides long-term value, aligning with their plan to build a competitive team over the next few years.
6. Kuzma Going All The Way To Portland
Washington Wizards Receive: Malcolm Brogdon, 2026 First-Round Pick
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Kyle Kuzma
Malcolm Brogdon had a solid season with the Portland Trail Blazers, averaging 15.7 points, 5.5 assists, and 3.8 rebounds in 39 games. Brogdon’s efficiency and playmaking abilities make him an excellent addition to the Wizards, providing veteran leadership and stability on the court. His experience and skillset will be crucial for guiding Washington’s young core as they develop.
The Trail Blazers finished the 2023-24 season with a disappointing 21-61 record, placing 15th in the Western Conference. Despite the struggles, Portland is looking to build a competitive team around their young talents. The Blazers hold the 7th overall pick in the upcoming draft, offering another opportunity to strengthen their roster.
Adding Kuzma to the Trail Blazers would complement their emerging core of Anfernee Simons, Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, and Deandre Ayton. Kuzma’s scoring ability and versatility would provide an immediate boost, making Portland a more competitive team in the Western Conference. His experience and ability to play multiple positions will fit well with the Blazers’ young, dynamic lineup, helping to create a balanced and potent offensive unit.
For the Wizards, acquiring Brogdon and a 2026 first-round pick offers both immediate and future benefits. Brogdon can help mentor Washington’s young players while maintaining competitiveness on the court. The additional first-round pick adds flexibility for future drafts or trades, aligning with the Wizards’ long-term rebuilding plans.
7. Surprise Move For The Spurs
Washington Wizards Receive: Keldon Johnson, 2027 First-Round Pick
San Antonio Spurs Receive: Kyle Kuzma
The Spurs finished the 2023-24 season with a 22-60 record, placing them 14th in the Western Conference. Despite their struggles, the future looks bright with rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama, who has shown flashes of greatness. The Spurs are actively looking to build a strong team around him. Adding Kuzma, a versatile forward, could accelerate their journey towards becoming a playoff contender. Kuzma’s scoring and ability to play multiple positions will complement Wembanyama’s unique skill set.
Keldon Johnson, a young and promising player, had a notable season with the Spurs, averaging 15.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists over 69 games. Johnson’s versatility and room for growth make him a significant addition to the Wizards, who are focused on long-term success. Including a 2027 first-round pick aligns perfectly with Washington’s plan to build a competitive team for the future.
San Antonio’s offseason focus is on bolstering their roster to support Wembanyama. Rumors suggest they are looking for a dynamic point guard, but acquiring Kuzma could also be part of a more aggressive strategy to become competitive sooner. With Anfernee Simons, Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, and Deandre Ayton forming a young core, Kuzma’s experience and scoring ability can provide the stability and leadership needed to guide this talented group.
For the Wizards, acquiring Johnson and a future first-round pick provides immediate talent and future flexibility. Johnson can contribute right away and develop alongside Washington’s other young players. The additional draft pick offers potential for further trades or valuable selections in upcoming drafts.
