"Can't guard a stop sign": Kyle Kuzma doesn't mince words about Wizards’ abysmal record
Despite Kyle Kuzma’s strong play, the Washington Wizards are struggling mightily this season, having lost 10 of their last 11 games. According to Kuzma, the Wizards’ shortcomings can be attributed to their lack of defense.
Following Washington’s 139-120 loss to the Orlando Magic on Wednesday, Kuzma was asked how the game got out of hand. He spoke about how the Wizards consistently let opposing teams score at will without any resistance. He added that they will continue to get blown out until they rectify the issue:
“We can't guard a stop sign. That's kind of really what it boils down to,” Kuzma said.
We let anybody get whatever they want on us. So, until we change that, then that's probably going to be the result.”
Kuzma finished with a team-high 23 points, three rebounds and six assists on 45.0% shooting on Wednesday.
However, Washington allowed three Magic players to score at least 22 points, led by forward Franz Wagner, who finished with 31 points on 78.6% shooting. The Wizards also allowed Orlando to shoot a whopping 60.7% (51-for-84) and 63.0% from 3 (17-for-27) as a team.
The disappointing defensive effort marked a trend for the Wizards, who rank last in the NBA in team defensive rating (120.1). So, as Kuzma pointed out, they will likely have to make considerable defensive improvements if they hope to be more competitive moving forward.
The Wizards (3-15) and Magic (13-5) rematch on Friday in Orlando, where the Magic will look to win their ninth straight game.
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Kyle Kuzma is having a career year
Kyle Kuzma has been one of the few bright spots for the Wizards this season. Through 18 games, Kuzma is averaging 23.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 0.3 steals, 0.6 blocks and 2.3 3-pointers per game on 47.0% shooting.
His ppg, apg and shooting efficiency all mark career highs, as he has blossomed into Washington’s clear-cut No. 1 offensive option.
Most would agree that Kuzma is living up to the four-year, $90 million contract he signed during the offseason. However, given the Wizards’ struggles, it remains to be seen if they view him as a future franchise cornerstone.
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