NBA Rumors: Kyle Kuzma on Trade Market; Wizards' Asking Price 'Too Rich' at Deadline

Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma will be on the trade market during the offseason, according to Yahoo Sports' Jake Fischer.

Per Fischer, the Wizards previously attempted to move the 28-year-old ahead of the Feb. 8 trade deadline although a deal never materialized after their asking price was "too rich for most rival teams."

In 70 starts during the 2023-24 season, Kuzma averaged 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game while shooting 46.3 percent from the field.

He still has three seasons left on a four-year, $90 million deal that he signed with Washington in July 2023. The descending value of the contract could entice opposing teams that are looking to trade for him, as he'll have a cap hit of just under $20 million during the 2026-27 season (via Spotrac).

With the salary cap potentially increasing by 10 percent annually starting with the 2025-26 season due to a new TV deal, the tail end of Kuzma's contract could end up looking like a steal (h/t Keith Smith of Spotrac).

While Kuzma's impressive offensive production hasn't resulted in wins for the Wizards, it isn't difficult to imagine him thriving in a smaller role on a team with playoff aspirations. He's developed into a reliable three-level scorer in Washington, averaging 2.3 made three-pointers per game over the past two seasons.

There should be several suitors for Kuzma on the trade market, as Michael Scotto of HoopsHype reported that he's "expected to be coveted again on the trade market by rival teams" prior to the 2024 NBA draft.

For Washington, it's likely easier for the front office to move the 28-year-old and pivot towards a full-scale rebuild after winning the No. 2 overall pick in the draft during the lottery on May 12.

If the Wizards decide to come down from their previous high asking price, Kuzma could be on the move during the summer.