Reports: Kyle Kuzma makes a bold move to become unrestricted free agent this summer

Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma has made it known that he does not intend to sign an extension with the team. According to reports, Kuzma plans to decline his player option and will likely be an unrestricted free agent before the 2023-24 NBA season.

The forward is having a career year with the Wizards and will take a gamble to sign with a different team. A few weeks ago, there were teams inquiring about his price in the trade market, but there has been no talk of a trade. Additionally, he has made it known that he wants out of D.C.

For Kuzma, these are simply business decisions. His time with Washington has helped his career, and the 27-year old has acknowledged that. In an interview with the Washington Post, the one-time NBA champion explained how he's been good with the Wizards.

"Last year really gave me a taste of how good I can really be in this league, and it gave me a lot of confidence, having that one stretch where everyone was out," Kuzma said. "I had to get to it every night, and I think that really helped me prepare my mentality for how I approached this year.

"Because every night I know I’ve got to be ready to play at a high level to help give us a chance to win. That starts after games. That starts the morning of and the day before with how I eat, how I work out, how I recover. Those things, they all matter. And it’s probably why I’ve been so consistent this year. My motor’s been consistent every night."

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The Wizards could trade Kyle Kuzma

Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma

The Wizards could trade Kyle Kuzma by or at the Feb. 9 trade deadline. His value is still high, which the team could use to snag some future first-round picks. Or Washington could trade him for a rising star, but it's a question as to which team would be willing to have their young star traded.

Kuzma is averaging 21.4 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.6 assists while shooting 46.2%, including 34.3% from beyond the arc. If D.C. decides to trade Kuzma, now is the time. He's having a great year and could contribute big time with any contending team.