Kyle Kuzma hasn't been the same player since leaving the Los Angeles Lakers. Having established himself as a dynamic scoring threat during his early years, the forward embraced the role of a 3-and-D player to help the Purple and Gold win a championship.
After being traded to the Washington Wizards in 2021, Kuzma had the chance to become a scoring threat again. Unfortunately, the Wizards have been an underwhelming team in this time.
Kuzma proved he still had value after joining the Milwaukee Bucks last season, averaging 14.5 points and 5.6 rebounds per game while contributing on the defensive end. But this wasn't enough, especially considering that the Bucks were knocked out in the first round of the playoffs.
Given the Bucks' current trajectory, there's a clear need to provide Giannis Antetokounmpo with more support. Meanwhile, the Lakers need to solidify their roster strength with additional frontcourt depth.
To address both these issues, Sports Illustrated's Jackson Caudell and Rohan Raman presented a three-team trade idea, with the Hawks effectively acting as facilitators for the trade.
Proposed Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Kyle Kuzma, 2026 second-round pick (MIL), 2032 first-round pick (MIL swap)
Milwaukee Bucks Receive: Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, 2029 first-round pick (ATL)
Atlanta Hawks Receive: Andre Jackson Jr.
The Hawks' acquisition of Andre Jackson Jr. does little to improve their overall roster strength. As one of the most impressive teams this offseason, the Hawks have enough depth in their backcourt to relegate Jackson Jr. to a deep bench position.
However, this move does have major implications for the Lakers and the Bucks.
This trade allows the Lakers to acquire a fan-favorite in Kyle Kuzma. When considering what he achieved with the team during his tenure, it's clear that he would be welcomed with open arms in Los Angeles.
Kuzma could be a key addition to the Lakers' bench. As a confident scorer and earnest defender, he can provide consistent scoring and versatility off the bench.
At 6'9", he also gives the Purple and Gold some length in the frontcourt. This could be vital in improving the team's rebounding effort and defensive performance on the perimeter.
His chemistry with LeBron James is proven. Kuzma's adaptability would help him develop a similar chemistry with Luka Doncic. When also considering the draft capital coming over in this trade, with two second-rounders in 2026 and 2032, the Lakers would view this very favorably.
This deal also has some merit for the Bucks, who are currently lacking in several positions. Although this deal doesn't address the immediate issues in their starting rotation, it does provide them with some depth and valuable draft capital.
The addition of Gabe Vincent helps build some depth in their point guard rotation. With Cole Anthony occupying the starting spot, Vincent could prove to be a reliable backup.
While his playmaking isn't his most notable asset, he has displayed some capabilities as a perimeter threat and a point-of-attack defender. His hustle and effort were valuable factors for the Lakers.
He recorded an average of 6.4 points, 1.4 assists, and 0.7 steals per game, while shooting 40.0% from the field and 35.3% from three-point range last season. While his offensive contributions are limited, he could still be a solid veteran presence to have on the bench.
Acquiring Maxi Kleber could benefit the Bucks in many ways. On the court, Kleber has displayed tremendous IQ and veteran instincts. As a capable floor-spacing big man, he brings a lot of flexibility to the rotation, essentially fulfilling a role similar to Brook Lopez.
He isn't the most formidable defender, but he still showcases defensive instincts and smarts that allow him to stay in front of his assignments.
Kleber missed much of last season due to injury, which impacted his statistical output. But considering what he is capable of bringing to the table, Milwaukee could have use for him in their rotation.
Even if they cannot be contributors for the team, both Kleber and Vincent are on expiring contracts. This could be beneficial for the Bucks in clearing roughly $22.5 million in cap space next season, making this deal a lot more lucrative for Milwaukee.
The Bucks Do Not Do This Deal
Stocking up on expiring contracts presents an intriguing outlook for Milwaukee, but it remains unlikely that they would willingly compromise their season to this extent, especially amid ongoing Antetokounmpo trade rumors.
Kuzma may not be the ideal third scoring option, but he has proven himself to be a more significant contributor than Vincent and Kleber combined.
Even with the draft capital coming their way, the Bucks would handle this situation carefully. While a potential rebuild may be on the horizon, parting ways with Kuzma may only happen as part of a package deal for a bigger name.
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