One NBA writer is proposing that the Memphis Grizzlies acquire small forward Kyle Kuzma from the Washington Wizards this summer.
Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report proposed that the Grizzlies trade Brandon Clarke, Jake LaRavia and the 25th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft for Kuzma, who can become an unrestricted free agent this offseason if he declines his 2023-24 player option.
Kuzma could start for the Grizzlies since Dillon Brooks is not expected to be back next season.
“If the Grizzlies don’t plan on bringing Dillon Brooks back in free agency, they’ll need another forward who can hit shots and defend multiple positions,” Swartz wrote. “While Kuzma isn’t nearly the defender that Brooks is, he’s the superior offensive talent who should be thrilled to return to a contender. The 27-year-old averaged a career-high 21.1 points, 7.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists in 64 starts. Memphis could use him as the starting small forward or as a sixth man who can play both forward positions.
“Clarke could miss a large portion of next season with a torn Achilles but is just beginning a four-year, $50 million deal that should still look like a bargain over time,” Swartz explained. “LaRavia was the 19th overall pick in the draft last season and the Wizards also get the 25th pick this year, all for a player in Kuzma who could leave for nothing as a free agent.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
Kuzma averaged 21.2 points, 7.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists this season for the Wizards while shooting 44.8% from the field, 33.3% from beyond the arc and 73.0% from the free-throw line. The former Los Angeles Lakers star is expected to decline his 2023-24 player option, which is worth $13 million.
The Grizzlies could start Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Kuzma, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Steven Adams next season. Memphis won 51 games this season but lost to LeBron James and the Lakers in the first round of the 2023 playoffs in six games.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
Kuzma has career averages of 16.5 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.5 assists with the Lakers and Wizards. He turns 28 on July 24, 2023.
Want the latest in NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
