Fans speculate trade after Kyle Kuzma's brief moment with Kings owner Vivek Ranadive

The NBA trade season is heating up, with Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma emerging as one of the most talked-about names. Kuzma has been linked to multiple Western Conference teams, including the Sacramento Kings and LA Lakers.

On Sunday, Kuzma sparked intrigue during the Wizards’ visit to Sacramento by sharing a notable moment with Kings owner Vivek Ranadive before tipoff. Kuzma ran over to Ranadive, and the two exchanged a handshake and a pat on the back. Watch the interaction below:

The exchange led fans to speculate that the Kings might be eyeing a trade for Kyle Kuzma.

One fan humorously referenced the Brian Windhorst meme from when the Utah Jazz began their rebuilding process.

“I wouldn’t mind Kuz if all it takes is Kev (Kevin Huerter) and a second. I wouldn’t do a first for him tho,” one said.

“Unless it's for cheap hell no let him rot on the Wizards 😂😂😂,” another commented.

However, many Kings fans in the comments were against the idea of acquiring Kuzma.

“No thank you please 🤗,” one said.

“STAY AWAY FROM MY FRANCHISE,” another said.

“Bro hell no I swear if we get him it’s over,” another added.

Kuzma’s performance this season has been underwhelming. He’s averaging 14.1 points per game (his third-lowest career mark), 5.2 rebounds (second-lowest) and 2.4 assists (his lowest since the 2021-22 season). He’s also shooting 43.1% (second-lowest in his career) and just 25.0% from beyond the arc — a career low.

Insider reports Kings are a ‘team to watch’ for Kyle Kuzma

Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reported that the Sacramento Kings are among the teams interested in acquiring Kyle Kuzma. While the LA Lakers and Golden State Warriors had previously shown interest, they ultimately targeted Dorian Finney-Smith and Dennis Schroder, respectively.

“Kuzma was drawing trade interest from several teams before the holiday season,” Siegel wrote. “His market has since cooled, although the Sacramento Kings remain a team to watch for the Wizards' forward if they strike out on a trade with the Nets for (Cameron) Johnson.

“Barring a surprise team emerging, the Kings appear to be Kuzma's likeliest destination if moved at the trade deadline.”

Kuzma, who won a championship with the Lakers in 2020, offers size and scoring ability. He could appeal to a contender willing to retool his game and develop him into a more defined role player.