The Houston Rockets have emerged as the favorite to sign small forward Kyle Kuzma, according to NBA insider Carmichael Dave.
Kuzma becomes an unrestricted free agent on June 30. He declined his 2023-24 player option with the Washington Wizards, who are rebuilding under new president Michael Winger. Washington has already traded All-Star shooting guard Bradley Beal and power forward Kristaps Porzingis.
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 & RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards & Houston Rockets Updates
A Michigan native, Kuzma has career averages of 16.5 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.5 assists with the Los Angeles 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.
It will be fascinating to see where Kuzma is playing next season. The talented swingman has established himself as one of the top scorers in the NBA. The Rockets have over $60 million in cap space, so they are expected to be aggressive in free agency.
Along with the Rockets, the Utah Jazz and Dallas Mavericks are also interested in Kuzma, according to NBA insider Matt Moore. Kuzma is also reportedly seeking $30 million per season on his next contract.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards & Houston Rockets Updates
It was later reported by Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports that Kuzma potentially joining the Sacramento Kings has “gained plenty of momentum.” Sacramento plans to sign Domantas Sabonis to a lucrative contract extension and bring back Trey Lyles, but should still be able to make a competitive offer to Kuzma.
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