LAS VEGAS — The Washington Wizards orchestrated a series of major changes during the summer, including trading away Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis. However, the team’s new front office made two key financial investments that prevented a complete rebuild. First, they acquired guard Jordan Poole and his four-year, $128 million contract from the Golden State Warriors in a draft-day trade. Then, they re-signed forward Kyle Kuzma to a four-year, $102 million contract in free agency.
Although Kuzma and Poole may not have the same status as Beal and Porzingis, they are entering their prime years and have played important roles on championship teams. As the Wizards embark on a multi-year process of building a competitive playoff team, the 27-year-old Kuzma and 24-year-old Poole will be counted on as primary scorers and leaders.
“We’re reshaping,” said Wizards General Manager Will Dawkins about the team’s busy offseason. “Retaining a player like Kuzma and adding guards like Tyus [Jones] and Jordan, I think you’re just reshaping because those guys are ready to play.”
Kuzma and Poole, who spoke with the media before a summer league game against the Indiana Pacers, share a connection to Michigan. Kuzma is from Flint, while Poole played for the University of Michigan. Both players are excited about taking on expanded responsibilities. Kuzma began his career as a role player for the Los Angeles Lakers alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, while Poole spent most of his time with the Warriors backing up Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.
“Being in D.C. for the last two years, I really fell in love with the city,” said Kuzma, who had a career-high 21.2 points per game last season. “Now that [my contract is] all signed, sealed and delivered, it feels amazing. I’m very ambitious and having the opportunity to lead this organization and a group of young guys is something I can do at a high level. I’m excited to build.”
Kuzma recommitted to the Wizards after Beal was traded to the Phoenix Suns and Porzingis was sent to the Boston Celtics. Despite the significant changes to the roster, Kuzma praised owner Ted Leonsis’s new front office and remained open-minded throughout the process.
“This is a business. People come and go. Jobs change,” Kuzma said. “I love what Ted did with his hires. He did a phenomenal job shaping Monumental Sports. He’s brought in professionals who know what they’re doing. That’s appealing to me as a professional.”
Poole joins the Wizards after a challenging season with the Warriors, where he faced adversity both on and off the court. He was involved in an altercation with Draymond Green during training camp, which affected his playing time and performance. Despite the difficulties, Poole is grateful for his time with the Warriors and is ready to apply what he learned in his new situation.
The Wizards’ busy offseason has led to a less experienced roster, a more balanced payroll, and additional draft assets. Clearing Beal’s contract and avoiding a costly extension for Porzingis will provide the team’s front office with greater flexibility moving forward.
While a playoff appearance may not be the immediate goal for the Wizards, Dawkins emphasized that the team’s focus is on the evolution of the game and the competitiveness of the players.
“I try not to limit our potential in any season,” Dawkins said. “Team goals will be less about wins and more about the style of play and competitiveness. Those will be our benchmarks.”
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