Is Kyle Kuzma playing tonight against New York Knicks? Latest injury update on Wizards forward amid trade chatter

The Washington Wizards are set to face the New York Knicks in back-to-back games starting on Saturday in the nation's capital. The biggest news swirling around the Capital One Arena is the rumor that Kyle Kuzma may be traded before the Feb. 6 deadline.

Kuzma, who has been sidelined with a bruised rib since last month, has missed the team’s last 11 games and remains out for Saturday’s matchup against the Knicks.

Two months into an eagerly anticipated season, the Wizards' campaign has been underwhelming. The uncertainty surrounding Kuzma’s contract adds to the team's woes.

NBA insider Jake Fischer pointed out that Kuzma’s $26.5 million apron salary, unlikely bonuses and a 15% trade kicker are significant hurdles. A deal may be pushed through closer to the deadline.

"Kuzma's apron salary comes in at $26.5 million thanks to his unlikely bonuses, compared to his $23.5 million cap hit for trade salary purposes, Fischer said via marcstein.substack.com. “And also factoring in Kuzma's 15% trade kicker. For the latter, if Kuzma were to be dealt today, his apron salary would rise by another $2 million charged to the team trading him away.”

Given his profile, it's no surprise that teams such as the Lakers and Kings are pursuing Kyle Kuzma. The 6-foot-9 forward's versatility allows him to comfortably play as both a starter and a bench player, as well as in various other positions if needed.

Kuzma has appeared in just 12 games this season, averaging 15.8 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game.

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Kyle Kuzma’s stat vs New York Knicks

Kyle Kuzma has a solid track record against the New York Knicks. In 16 matchups, he's averaged a respectable 19.6 points, 5.4 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game, with a 6-10 record. His best performance came in the 2023 season when he scored 40 points, the second-highest total in a single game in his NBA career.

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What to expect from New York Knicks vs Washington Wizards

With both teams experiencing contrasting fortunes this season, the game could have significant implications as the festive schedule intensifies. For the Wizards, survival is the sole objective. With only five wins this season, they are at the bottom of the standings, making the task of climbing up the ranks a daunting challenge.