The Washington Wizards are set to retain their ‘big 3’ of Bradley Beal, Kyle Kuzma, and Kristaps Porzingis.
After Rui Hachimura was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers for Kendrick Nunn and three future second-round draft picks, the focus was firmly on Beal and Kuzma — two players who have no dearth of suitors if the team puts them on the trade block.
However, it appears that the Wizards have no intention of letting any of the three go. According to The Washington Post’s Ava Wallace, President and General Manager Tommy Sheppard is keen on continuing with his three stars.
The journalist opined that Sheppard has faith in his roster and the three stars despite the Wizards’ mounting struggles this season.
Sheppard’s front office believes the team is more talented than it has been in years past — something its record does not reflect, in part because of a steady stream of injuries. Washington’s core trio of Beal, Porzingis and Kuzma have only played 23 games together largely because of Beal’s three extended absences because of either injury or illness. But injuries don’t account for all of the team’s shortcomings — they are 11-12 when the trio play together.
From a contract and future standpoint, veteran Beal is set to make $46.7 million next season, while Porzingis can use his $36 million player option or decide to become a free agent in the summer. Meanwhile, Kuzma reportedly has plans to look around free agency.
Kyle Kuzma Gets Real On His Future With The Washington Wizards
Wing scorer Kyle Kuzma has been one of the more consistent players this season, and also one of the hottest names on the trade market. He is set to be a free agent after this season, and the popular theory is that he will find a new franchise and end his tenure at DC.
Speaking to The Athletic’s John Robbins, the forward was candid about his future with Washington:
For sure. One hundred percent. They showed me love. They have allowed me to have a platform to show my game and show the league I’m not just a role player. I’m someone that’s arriving right now. That’s the biggest thing for me.
I want to keep elevating. Having a leadership position, having somewhere where I’m developing and playing my game and my role and I’m getting better every single game — that’s what I care about.
The Wizards are 22-26 and placed tenth in the Eastern Conference standings. They have had a rather inconsistent run this season, despite Kuzma’s best efforts.
It won’t be surprising if some of the top sides make a beeline for the player. But for now, it appears that he will finish his season as a Wizard.
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