The Sacramento Kings haven’t given up on the idea of movin’ and shakin’ this NBA offseason, even after re-signing guard Malik Monk to a reported four-year deal.
Instead, the Kings remain active on the market and are said to still be interested in acquiring forward Kyle Kuzma from the Wizards, via Anthony Slater and Sam Amick of The Athletic.
“Kuzma has an appealing contract,” Slater and Amick wrote. “He is under control for the next three seasons at an affordable and declining rate: $23.5 million, $21.4 million, $19.4 million, attached to a trade kicker that would add $3 million each season unless Kuzma waives it. He remains a name to watch for the Kings heading into the week.”
That said, the Wizards have no intention of moving Kuzma just because, sources told Hoops Wire. He has a good relationship with new coach Brian Keefe and Washington wants to see if it’s something on which to build. Kuzma could be traded — but he won’t be given away, sources said.
Our Ashish Mathur relayed last week that the Kings and Wizards were expected to renew Kuzma talks.
The Kings tried to acquire Kuzma at the February trade deadline.
“After talks at the deadline, the Kings are expected to renew conversations with Washington for Kyle Kuzma, especially with the Wizards potentially adding a front-court starter in the draft later this month,” Moore wrote.
Kuzma averaged 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.2 assists for the Wizards this season while shooting 46.3% from the field, 33.6% from beyond the arc and 77.5% from the free-throw line. He’ll make $23.5 million next season.
The Kings and Wizards missed the playoffs this year. Sacramento went 46-36, while Washington went 15-67.
Kuzma has career averages of 17.3 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.7 assists with the Los Angeles Lakers and Kings. He won the 2020 NBA championship with the Lakers.
The Wizards hold the No. 2 and 26 picks in the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft and will look to acquire another first-round pick, a league source told Hoops Wire.
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