Wizards' Kyle Kuzma Enters Health and Safety Protocols, Won't Play vs. Jazz
December 11, 2021
Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Utah Jazz after being placed in the NBA's health and safety protocols, the team announced.
Kuzma had not missed a game this season before being ruled out Saturday.
The reason for his landing in the protocol is unclear, as is his vaccination status.
Losing Kuzma for any period isn't great for the Wizards, though it's especially disappointing entering Saturday's game against the Jazz, who are third in the Western Conference with an 18-7 record.
Kuzma has played a significant role in the Washington lineup this season, averaging 13.4 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.9 assists while shooting 42.5 percent from the field and 35.5 percent from deep in 26 games.
With Kuzma sidelined, Davis Bertans and Anthony Gill figure to see more playing time. Bertans enters Saturday's game averaging 5.1 points and 1.6 rebounds in 15.3 minutes per night, while Gill is averaging 2.6 points and 1.5 rebounds in 5.2 minutes per game.
Washington has lost three of its last four games and sits fifth in the Eastern Conference with a 15-11 record.
The Wizards acquired Kuzma in the trade that sent Russell Westbrook to the Los Angeles Lakers in August. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Montrezl Harrell were also traded to Washington in that deal.
