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Kyle Kuzma was spared when the Los Angeles Lakers traded a slew of young players and multiple first-round picks to the New Orleans Pelicans for Anthony Davis in the summer of 2019.
The Purple and Gold franchise dealt two former no. 2 overall picks in Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram, along with Josh Hart and three future first-rounders, for Davis. Interestingly, Lakers GM Rob Pelinka retained Kuzma, whose value decreased after an underwhelming sophomore campaign.
It was a hefty price tag for Davis, but undeniably worth it as the superstar is co-leading the Lakers to a 2-0 lead over the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals.
Kuzma — who averaged 12.8 points per game in 2019-20 — reflected on his exclusion from the deal. Unsurprisingly, he is grateful to still be wearing purple and gold as he approaches his first ring.
“I could have been at home enjoying myself right now,” Kyle Kuzma said, via Silver Screen and Roll. “That’s the biggest thing for us, to be here obviously. Like you said, big trades, having AD come here, and decide to put me in the mix to try to win a championship and be a part of a championship team, you know, I’m just very thankful for it.”
Kuzma posted three points and eight rebounds in his first career Finals game, but he followed it up with an 11-point outing in Game 2. Clearly, he's relishing the opportunity to play for a title contender.
“It’s been super fun, especially for me,” Kuzma added about the Lakers' playoff push. “I’m just trying to live in the moment. I’m trying to play possession by possession and come in with energy. Get stops. Guard guys. Just help my teammates. That’s all I can really ask for. I’m out there competing, and it’s been fun. Playing in the NBA Finals is a dream for me. I love it.”
The Pelicans shouldn't be too displeased with the trade either, especially considering Davis was intent on leaving. After all, they got Ingram who has developed into an All-Star caliber player, eventually winning the league's Most Improved Player of the Year award this 2019-20.
