Kyle Kuzma looking for more than just money in free agency

Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma will enter the offseason looking for a huge payday. After two seasons in Washington, Kuzma expects to decline his $13 million player option for next season, pushing him to free agency.

Reports suggest Kuzma is looking for at least $20 million annually on a new deal. Current CBA rules make it nearly impossible for him to accept an extension with the Wizards. Thus, if he is to return, he won’t decide before July 1, when free agency starts.

However, the 6-foot-10 veteran says his decision won’t be entirely about money. Instead, he is looking for a situation to help him become a better player.

“It’s not about money,” Kuzma said, per Chase Hughes of NBC Sports Washington. “I’m going to get paid regardless anywhere [I go] and here [in D.C.], too. It’s about can I come into work every day and be the best version of myself.”

Getting traded to the Wizards from the Los Angeles Lakers was a blessing in disguise for Kuzma. He won an NBA title with the Lakers, but Kuzma got his wish to get out from the shadows of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Kuzma emerged with 17.1 points and a career-high 8.5 rebounds during the 2021-22 season. His scoring and shot attempts rose this season with career-bests of 21.2 points and 10.3 field goal attempts. He also had 7.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists in 64 games.

In Washington, Kyle Kuzma revitalized his career. He carved out a role as part of a trio of stars with Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis. However, Porzingis also is likely to decline a player option for next season. Contract talks reportedly have heated up between Porzingis and the Wizards.

The Wizards are interested in running it back with all three. It’s an option that is certainly on the table for Kuzma.

“It’s 100% an option,” Kuzma said, per Hoop District. “I’ve had a great time here. I’ve developed my game significantly here, and there’s good people here. I’d be a fool to say it’s not an option.”

Yet Beal is playing on a $251 million super-max deal. Porzingis is likely to get a max contract. Thus, bringing back Kuzma at his reported asking price will be a daunting challenge for the Wizards.

The Wizards enter the offseason already over the salary cap and right against the luxury tax threshold for the 2023-24 season. Wizards general manager Tommy Sheppard must be strategic if Kuzma and Porzingis are in Washington’s plans for next season.

Still, Kuzma’s yearning to progress into an All-Star while having a significant say seemingly is at the top of the list with money. Can he accomplish everything in Washington? This summer, the Wizards will find out.

If he hits free agency, Kuzma expects to have options, including contenders and teams looking to take the next step with Kuzma as a big piece of the puzzle.