Kyle Kuzma was the only one untouched after the blockbuster Anthony Davis trade which sent several of the Los Angeles Lakers young guns to the New Orleans Pelicans. For Laker legend Kobe Bryant, it was Kuzma's versatility which made him untouchable.

Speaking on the Real 92.3 LA’s “The Cruz Show,” Bryant explained how Kuzma's abilities on both ends of the floor made him a valuable player for the Lakers. Bryant event noted that Kuzma has the capacity to be a great defensive player. As transcribed by Christian Rivas of SB Nation:

“Probably his versatility. I think the game used to be about having specialists on the floor and think it’s gotten away from that to having guys that can play all facets of the game. That includes offensively and defensively, and defensively he has the potential to be a great defensive player, so I think that’s one things they looked at as well as his shooting ability and just his size. I think you put all that in the pot and it made him indispensable for this summer.”

To recall, the Lakers sent Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart, plus other players to the Pelicans for Davis. When the rumors began between Davis and the Lakers, Kuzma was mentioned in such trade talks. But as the deal was seemingly about to be sealed, Kuzma was taken off the rumor mill.

Critics saw him as a perfect fit to LeBron James' playstyle, given that the four-time MVP needs someone who can shoot the ball and cut to the hoop. Kuzma fits all the requirements to be an effective teammate of James. As such, he'll likely don the Purple and Gold jerseys for the next few years.