Lakers Close to Reacquiring Kyle Kuzma in Offseason Trade
The Los Angeles Lakers have been relatively quiet in this offseason, but recent reports suggest they are still aiming to make significant moves to bolster their roster. According to insider Anthony Irwin, one potential move under consideration is bringing back Kyle Kuzma.
Sources indicate that the Lakers have engaged in trade discussions with various teams to explore options such as Jerami Grant from the Portland Trail Blazers, Cameron Johnson and Dorian Finney-Smith from the Brooklyn Nets, Bruce Brown from the Toronto Raptors, and Kyle Kuzma from the Washington Wizards, among others. These players have emerged as primary targets for the Lakers as they seek to reinforce their lineup ahead of the upcoming season.
During the offseason, the Lakers pursued several high-profile free agents, including Klay Thompson, but were unsuccessful in their attempts to secure them. Now, with many top-tier players like Paul George, Donovan Mitchell, and James Harden off the market, the Lakers are turning their attention to the trade market to address their needs.
Interestingly, Kyle Kuzma, who previously played four seasons with the Lakers and contributed to their championship win in the 2020 NBA bubble, is being considered for a return. Despite playing a supporting role during his tenure in Los Angeles, Kuzma averaged 15.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. However, following a challenging 2020-21 season, the Lakers traded Kuzma to the Washington Wizards as part of a multi-team deal that brought Russell Westbrook to Los Angeles.
Since joining the Wizards, Kuzma has shown growth both on and off the court, despite the team’s overall struggles. In the most recent season, he posted career-best numbers with averages of 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game while shooting 46% from the field. While Kuzma initially declined opportunities to leave the Wizards, the Lakers’ interest could present a compelling scenario that might lead to his return to Los Angeles.
Although Kuzma has faced criticisms for his performance on both offense and defense, he offers versatility as a scoring forward, which the Lakers have been seeking. Reuniting with LeBron James and Anthony Davis could provide the Lakers with much-needed perimeter shooting and a player capable of creating his own scoring opportunities late in games.
While Kuzma may not be the marquee star fans anticipated, his potential return to the Lakers could bring added depth and flexibility to their wing positions. Familiarity with the organization from his previous stint could also expedite his integration into the team.