Kyle Kuzma Reportedly a Key Piece in Anthony Davis Trade Talks
By Daniel Lubofsky
As the Los Angeles Lakers attempt to swing a deal for superstar Anthony Davis, seemingly every young asset on the roster has been mentioned in a potential trade.
Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram appear to be the headliners in the package LA is willing to offer, but Kyle Kuzma is the X-factor of this entire ordeal.
One player that the Lakers’ trade discussions with the Pelicans for Anthony Davis could hinge on? Kyle Kuzma. The Lakers do not want to trade him, but the Pelicans want him as part of a package, sources tell me and @BA_Turner.
— Tania Ganguli (@taniaganguli) June 12, 2019
A 6-foot-9 versatile forward, Kuzma averaged 18.7 points and 5.5 rebounds per game this past season. He's also viewed as a terrific fit next to LeBron James for his ability to function without the ball.
It's for this reason Los Angeles would prefer to keep Kuzma, rather than deal him directly for AD. David Griffin and the New Orleans Pelicans are unlikely to back down, though, and they have every right to demand a top package for their 26-year-old superstar.
Kyle Kuzma is a nice player, but he's not so nice that you keep him out of a trade for Anthony Davis. https://t.co/VXVlATF8rK
— Kevin O'Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) June 12, 2019
The Lakers are desperate to find a co-star for James as his prime years dwindle. Whether that pushes all their chips to the table is something we'll find out soon enough.