The Indiana Pacers need a power forward. Kyle Kuzma needs to play for a franchise that has a hope of winning in the near future. At face value, it seems like a match made in heaven.
There are multiple rumors that Kuzma may be available, although some new reports are that Washington continues to try and communicate with other teams that they are hopeful to keep Kuzma for a longer period of time. Although, Marc Stein reported that Kuzma might be ready for a change of scenery.
That being said, Kuzma is the perfect player for the Pacers roster as currently constructed. Not only that, he’s not far from the timeline for the majority of the players on the roster. He has good size and speed, and naturally fits the power forward position. He also is able to play solid defense and can carry an offense if needed. The eye test would indicate that he would match nearly perfectly with Tyrese Haliburton and the high octane offense that is being run in Indy.
That being said, it will take a lot to get Kuzma away from the Wizards. But we think a trade like this could make it happen.
A large haul in return for Kyle Kuzma
It would take quite a bit to make a run at Kyle Kuzma. And some Pacers fans might not be willing to pay the cost. However, if we want to try and get it to happen, a trade like this might get it done:
The cost initially seems high for many Pacers fans with a first-round pick as well as a recent first-round pick in Chris Duarte. It’s possible that the Pacers could negotiate a lower price point for Kyle Kuzma, but it’s entirely possible that Washington may need a bit more. Perhaps a second round pick or a pick swap in a future draft might be enough to get the deal done, especially if Washington feels that they will have some difficult years ahead.
TJ McConnell along with Chris Duarte add rotational pieces for the Wizards, with Duarte having some potential upside in future years. TJ is clearly about to run a second unit, as well as step into the prime role if needed.
But should the Pacers do a trade like this?
Kuzma might be too perfect to pass on if given the opportunity
Kyle Kuzma would legitimately fit the exact need that the Pacers have at the moment. It is unlikely that the first-round pick we trade away would yield a player of Kuzma’s talent and the shooting guard rotation is already packed, meaning Chris Duarte may not get the space to develop that he needs. This trade would allow the Pacers to fill a position of need without giving up too much.
Whether or not the Wizards would be interested in trading away Kuzma for a first round pick is more up for debate. Additionally, recent reports have Kuzma interested in playing in a large market or for a title contender. If that is true, the Pacers may not think that Kuzma has long-term interest in a small market like Indiana, which would make this trade much more risky.
Our grade: B+
The Pacers would be wise to consider Kuzma given his perfect fit with their needs, but would need to give some serious thought to whether Kuzma would be interested in staying, the Pacers shouldn’t be interested in one-year rental type contracts.