There’s only a couple more weeks until the 2023 NBA trade deadline on Feb. 9, so of course there’s been no shortage or rumors to keep our minds churning. We’ve already had one trade, as the Los Angeles Lakers acquired Rui Hachimura from the Washington Wizards in exchange for Kendrick Nunn and three second-round picks on Monday, but it surely won’t be the last deal as we inch closer to one of the busiest days on the league’s calendar.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the latest rumors:
Wizards are adamant in not trading Kyle Kuzma
Washington already pulled off a trade that netted them three second-round picks and Kendrick Nunn in exchange for 2019 lottery pick Rui Hachimura, who was sent to the Lakers. While some might think that signals a potential rebuild on the horizon for the Wizards, the team has reportedly told others around the league that Kyle Kuzma will not be made available in a trade prior to Feb. 9, per Yahoo Sports. Kuzma has drawn interest from the Suns and Hawks due to his outstanding play this season (he’s averaging 21.8 points, 7.6 rebounds and four assists). Kuzma has already made it known that he plans on declining his player option to test unrestricted free agency waters this summer. If Kuzma signs elsewhere this summer the Wizards risk losing him for nothing, so trading him now may be worth it if they don’t think he can be retained in the offseason.
Lakers not done?
L.A. doesn’t appear to be done making deals, and while Hachimura provides some much needed wing depth and 3-point shooting, the Lakers are looking for more. One package the Lakers could shop around is a lottery-protected first-round pick and Patrick Beverley in exchange for either frontcourt help or additional wing depth, per The Athletic. The Lakers don’t have much to offer other teams with their lack of trade assets, so it’s unclear who they could realistically get with that deal. However, Beverley could still be a boost off the bench of a number of contending teams looking to upgrade their defense. If that package alone doesn’t get L.A. the player it…
Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/nba-rumors-raptors-offered-haul-for-og-anunoby-wizards-planning-to-keep-kyle-kuzma-whats-next-for-lakers/
Author : Jasmyn Wimbish
Publish date : 2023-01-24 22:58:39
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