NBA Trade Rumors: Washington Wizards open to parting ways with former NBA champion in a potential move for Malcolm Brogdon
With NBA trade rumors on the rise, Malcolm Brogdon has emerged as a target for the Washington Wizards. Considering Brogdon's value, the Wizards are open to the possibility of including Kyle Kuzma in a potential deal.
After a rather fruitful stint resulting in an NBA title with the LA Lakers, Kuzma could be donning new colors this coming season.
As per Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report, the Wizards are looking to package Kuzma and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in a deal to acquire Malcolm Brogdon.
Fischer mentioned that Brogdon is also a target for the New York Knicks, who have their sights set on top-notch veteran point guards. He also reported that Indiana would only show interest if Washington's 10th pick is included in the deal.
This creates a complicated situation as Kyle Kuzma has just begun to look like his former self with the Wizards. However, Washington's desperate need for a floor general puts them in a position that necessitates this move.
Would a deal involving Malcolm Brogdon and Kyle Kuzma be mutually beneficial?
Kyle Kuzma is coming off a terrific year with the Washington Wizards. He averaged 17.1 points and 8.5 rebounds per game and embraced his new role with the side.
While Kuzma looks like a top-tier role player, he is in an unfortunate situation. Washington has a gaping hole in the point guard position. With Tomas Satoransky as the starting point guard and Ish Smith as the backup, the team barely has the tools to compete.
Factoring in the possibility of Bradley Beal leaving the side, the pursuit of a quality point guard is necessary. In this regard, Malcolm Brogdon is a solid and reliable target.
However, with Indiana's dependence on Brogdon, prising him away will be a tall task. Although financially, a package of Kuzma and/or Caldwell-Pope compensates for Brogdon's salary, the 10th pick sweetens the deal significantly.
While there are more pieces that would have to be sent from Indiana, the deal would solve Washington's immediate problems, whilst also benefiting the Pacers.
With Tyrese Haliburton taking over as floor general, Kuzma could be used as a solid two-way player. Considering his development as a defender and rebounder, his value on the floor is quite impressive.