The Indiana Pacers could pursue Kyle Kuzma this offseason, according to Evan Massey of NBA Analysis Network.
Kuzma becomes an unrestricted free agent this offseason once he declines his 2023-24 player option with the Washington Wizards.
The former Los Angeles Lakers star has already confirmed that he plans to test free agency.
Kuzma averaged 21.2 points, 7.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists for the Wizards in 2022-23 while shooting 44.8% from the field, 33.3% from beyond the arc and 73.0% from the free-throw line. The 27-year-old is set to make much more on the open market than the $13 million he would have earned next season if he didn’t decline his player option.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards & Indiana Pacers Updates
A Michigan native, Kuzma has career averages of 16.5 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.5 assists with the Lakers and Wizards. He helped Los Angeles win the 2020 championship over the Miami Heat in six games at the Walt Disney World bubble in Orlando, Florida.
The Pacers won only 35 games in 2022-23, but they have a bright future with Tyrese Haliburton and Bennedict Mathurin leading the way. Most NBA execs believe Indiana could trade Myles Turner and/or Buddy Hield this offseason since removing those guys from the roster would create more shot attempts for Haliburton and Mathurin.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards & Indiana Pacers Updates
Since Kuzma is a three-level scorer, he projects to fit well next to Haliburton and Mathurin. However, the swingman may be looking for a max contract in free agency, so Indiana has to tread carefully, especially since Haliburton is set to become extension-eligible this offseason.
Yossi Gozlan of HoopsHype has more details:
“Haliburton is Indiana’s franchise player and he will likely be treated as such with a maximum contract offer. He is eligible to extend with the Pacers for up to five years, projected at $204 million. He could also receive provisions on his deal to receive a higher maximum salary, up to five years, projected at $244.8 million, if he meets the criteria like earning All-NBA honors next season.”
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