It is worth mentioning that Kuzma has scored 20+ 6 times this season, and the Wizards have all won. In another Wizards win, Kuzma had 18 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Kuzma has become a barometer for the Wizards.
During the Wizards' 3-game winning streak, the core Bill was absent, and Kuzma strengthened his personal offense. He's the Wizards' third spot behind Beal and Porzingis. On November 8, the Wizards defeated the Hornets 108-100, Kuzma scored 20 points and 6 rebounds. On November 11th, in the absence of Bill and Boshen, the Wizards upset the Lone Ranger 113-105. Kuzma scored 36 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists.
In this game, Porzingis came back and scored 31 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists, serving as the team's number one firepower. Kuzma played a good role as a supporter, scoring 23 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists.
Kuzma is one of the champions of Lakers in 2020, but was sent to the Wizards as one of the chips in exchange for Westbrook in the 2021 offseason. Facts have proved that the Lakers' introduction of Westbrook was a very unsuccessful transaction. The Lakers not only lost Kuzma, but also lost Pope , throwing away the team's two very useful forwards.
, but Pelinka frantically hoarded guards when reinforcing, ignoring the introduction of pitchers and forwards. The Lakers' lineup configuration in the last two seasons has been unreasonable, especially this season.
Kuzma has fully released his energy in the Wizards. This season, Kuzma is averaging 19.1 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.7 assists while shooting 46.4% from the field. Kuzma made a lot of sacrifices in the Lakers' championship season. He went from a starter to a backup and was sometimes questioned by the outside world. But he's a good James stand-in and can play with James too. Kuzma is very useful when the Lakers play small lineups.
In contrast, the Lakers are now playing a small lineup. Unlike the championship season, the Lakers' small lineup includes not only Kuzma, Pop, but also 3D giants like Danny Green , and the defensive strength is actually very good. Regardless, Kuzma left the Lakers and his energy was unleashed. Kuzma's contract is three years, $39 million, with an early extension with the Lakers in 2020.
Kuzma can jump out of the contract in the 2023 offseason, and he will most likely choose to jump out of the contract because he can get a far more generous annual salary than he is now. Kuzma is making $13 million this season. With his current ability, his annual salary of $18 million is not an exaggeration.
