The Los Angeles Lakers notably struck out with their top free agent targets so far in the offseason. They have been one of the quietest teams as they only brought in Bronny James and Dalton Knecht while extending the contracts of Max Christie and LeBron James. Fans are losing patience as the front office has turned its attention to the trade market.
The only hope the Lakers have to build a championship-level roster for next season is through trades. They have young players like Knecht and Jalen Hood-Schifino who they can trade, two future first-round picks, and rotation players like D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Jarred Vanderbilt. They need to get starter-caliber players who fit better around LeBron and Anthony Davis to have a chance at competing in the loaded Western Conference.
One name that has recently emerged as a trade target is former Laker Kyle Kuzma, according to Anthony Irwin of Lakers Daily. Irwin reported that the Lakers have had talks with the Washington Wizards to acquire the 28-year-old forward.
Kuzma was drafted in 2017 by the Lakers and spent the first four seasons of his career in Los Angeles before being traded to the Wizards as part of the Russell Westbrook trade. Since moving to Washington, Kuzma has continually improved and had the best seasons of his career as he has entered his prime. Last season, he averaged 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while having his most efficient campaign, shooting 46.3% from the field.
As someone who has experience playing with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, knows the organization and has won a championship, Kuzma is as good of a fit in Los Angeles as anyone.
Plus, he is under contract for another three seasons on a team-friendly deal with a salary that declines over the years. This allows the Lakers to maintain financial flexibility going forward in building out the roster. If the Wizards are willing to part ways with him in exchange for one first-round pick and matching salary, the Lakers should seriously consider it.
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