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The Washington Wizards landed the No. 2 pick overall in the NBA Draft. They’re now in a position to reel in some exciting players this offseason to continue their rebuild. And from the sounds of it, the rumor mill has them pegged to potentially trade Kyle Kuzma for another first-round selection in the upcoming draft.
Rumors are the Wizards are all in on acquiring a third first-round pick, according to Coley Cleary of HoopsHype. Reports indicate Washington wants to continue building through the draft and develop young prospects selected in the NBA Draft for 2024 and 2025.
“The Washington Wizards hold the No. 2 and 26 picks in the first round and will look to acquire another first-round pick in the draft, league sources told HoopsHype… After drawing significant interest ahead of the trade deadline, including a near deal that sent him to the Dallas Mavericks, Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma is expected to be coveted again on the trade market by rival teams heading into the draft, league sources said.”
The Wizards love the potential Bilal Coulibaly brings to the table. So much so, that Washington is viewing him as a centerpiece for the future. Cleary also claims the front office is interested in Alexandre Sarr or Zaccharie Risacher. Nikola Topic and Cody Williams are also a possibility in the 2024 NBA Draft as well.
“Washington favored positional size and upside in Frenchman Bilal Coulibaly with the No. 7 pick in the 2023 draft and could pair him with another fellow countryman if projected No. 1 pick Alex Sarr remains on the board or go with forward Zaccharie Risacher at No. 2 overall. Another candidate could include Nikola Topic if the front office wants to invest in a point guard of the future, with Tyus Jones entering unrestricted free agency this summer and expected to draw significant interest on the market. Forward Cody Williams is also another player some scouts and executives would take near the top of the draft, given his high floor and potential ceiling.”
Best landing spots for Kyle Kuzma if the Wizards trade him
Kyle Kuzma had a career year in his third season with the Wizards. The veteran forward finished the regular season averaging 22.2 points (career high), 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists (career high) per game. He has the potential to serve as a solid second option or a high-end third option for most teams in the league.
So, where would be the best landing spots for Kyle Kuzma? Considering rumors suggest the Wizards want to reel in as many rookies and prospects as possible, it makes sense for them to trade him away. He’s likely to fetch a decent package for a team currently rebuilding. Additionally, any team in need of a small or power forward would welcome Kuzma with open arms.
One team that stands out as a potential suitor is the Portland Trail Blazers. They’re a relatively young team that could use some extra juice in the lineup. Additionally, they lack depth and Kyle Kuzma would be a great addition to this roster. Especially if Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe develop accordingly.
Another good fit would be the Dallas Mavericks. After nearly acquiring the veteran forward before the trade deadline the front office might be inclined to make a push for him once again. The idea of having Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, Kyle Kuzma, PJ Washington, and Dereck Lively III sounds like a championship-caliber roster.
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