Blue Man Hoop
Fansided

Golden State Warriors: 3 Reasons to trade for Kyle Kuzma

By Tony Pesta

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 12: Kyle Kuzma #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers signals during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at Staples Center on February 12, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 12: Kyle Kuzma #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers signals during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at Staples Center on February 12, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 4
Next
Golden State Warriors (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
Golden State Warriors (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

Kuzma fits better with Golden State Warriors

There is no excuse for some of Kyle Kuzma’s shortcomings with the Los Angeles Lakers this season. Still, we can make the case that Kuzma would look better in the Golden State Warriors’ team-oriented system.

It is easy to thrive in a LeBron James style of offense if you’re a volume catch-and-shoot threat, a crafty ball-handling guard or a towering big man. Basically, if you’re anything other than the type of player Kuzma is, you’ll be fine.

Kuzma has struggled from day one to adapt to James’ ball-dominant presence. He’s not built for spotting up on the perimeter and drilling 3-point shots. And, he’s not a good enough playmaker to warrant isolation touches throughout the course of a game. He needs to be set up for good shots that aren’t primarily on the perimeter.

This is why Kuzma would fit better in Golden State. He wouldn’t have to seek his own shot off the dribble or stand in the corner for 3-pointers. The Warriors are constantly in motion, meaning Kuzma will receive plenty of opportunities to shoot from all around the floor.

Before the arrival of Anthony Davis, Kuzma was averaging close to 20 points per game as LeBron’s most consistent second scorer. Since then, he’s scoring just 12.8 points in the last two seasons. Slot him in the Warriors’ system and I bet we see a more efficient and potent Kyle Kuzma.

Home/Warriors News