NBA Trade Rumors: Sam Presti Could Swap 21YO Starlet for Kyle Kuzma, Luring Wizards with Draft Compensation

As the NBA draft comes closer teams are eyeing possible trades to strengthen their roster. One such team is the Oklahoma City Thunder. While the Young OKC did make it to the second round of the playoffs led by Shai Gilgoues-Alexander, their strength wasn’t enough to reach the Western Conference finals. So, to add some depth and championship experience Sam Presti may recruit Kyle Kuzma for a key piece.

According to Jake Weinbach, “The Thunder and Wizards could discuss a possible trade this summer that would send Kyle Kuzma to OKC for a package centered around Josh Giddey and draft compensation.” The report further adds, “Kuzma would be an ideal fit on the wing in OKC while Giddey would fit the long-term direction of the Wizards.”

The OKC already has a host of first-round picks left, and considering the condition of the Washington Wizards they do need to get their line-up in order. The young Josh Giddey could get a much-needed spotlight on the rooster, while Kuzma will add experience to the young OKC. Giddey had a challenging year, struggling to find his rhythm during a season when his teammate Shai rose as a leading MVP contender. However, Thunder general manager  Presti views it as simply a tough season for Giddey.

“It was an up-and-down year…. He’s 21, 21-year-olds typically have up-and-down years,” Presti said as reported by The Athletic’s Andrew Schlecht. Still, it feels like the “up-and-down year” was enough to get him on the rumor mill for being traded.

How can Kyle Kuzma Fit into OKC?

If indeed the OKC get Kuzma some of their issues might be resolved. In addition to the significant size on the floor, Kuz can be an excellent scoring option alleviating pressure from Shai in offense. The Thunder faltered on a third scoring option in playoffs apart of SGA and Jalen Williams so Kyle Solves that problem. In the regular season, he averaged 22 points a game in 70 games so it’s a perfect feat.

Also having led the Washington Wizards after his time with the Los Angeles Lakers Kuz can bring that element in a young team. Seamlessly blending into the starting starting line-up. However, nothing is set in stone yet, only a few weeks remain for the NBA finals to end so any development might be in motion after that. Will the OKC go in for Kuzma? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section.