NBA Rumors: Kyle Kuzma looking to sign with big market team or a contender

Kyle Kuzma has recently become a rather hot topic in NBA rumors, garnering a lot of interest after his improved performances this season. Bleacher Report's Eric Pincus shed some light on the speculation and mentioned that Kuzma might be looking to sign with a big-market team or a contender next season.

Since joining the Washington Wizards last season, the former NBA champion has been solid with the team. Placed in a role that he is more familiar with, Kuzma has flourished and lived up to his potential as a player.

Emerging as one of the main rotation players for the Wizards, Kuzma has attracted attention from teams around the league as well.

There is hope within the Wizards organization that the forward will stay with the team long-term and become a franchise cornerstone. However, some reports suggest that Kuzma may be looking for something else.

Eric Pincus recently mentioned that Kuzma might be looking for a larger pay rise ahead of his contract renewal next season. Pincus reported this via his source in the NBA. He wrote:

"He wants out. He's looking for over $20 million a season and in a big market [or with a contender]."

Pincus viewed the Wizards star as a top-5 free agent in next season's free agent market. With top-10 being a low bar, Kuzma has certainly pushed up his value as a player drastically.

Given the impact he has had in Washington, this is understandable as well. Although the team is 11-15, Kuz has shown enough on both ends of the floor to gain this kind of attention.

He has already garnered interest from the Atlanta Hawks and the Phoenix Suns. The Miami Heat have also kept the forward on their radar as they continue to explore trade options to shop Duncan Robinson.

Eric Pincus has listed a few teams that may be in the running to pursue Kuzma next season. The Suns remain an interesting suitor as they hope to fill Cam Johnson's absence and move Jae Crowder. Meanwhile, the Sacramento Kings are also rumored to be in pursuit of the forward.

Considering the big markets, the possibility of a reunion with the LA Lakers isn't completely out of the question. Given Kuzma's connection with the team and his relationship with LeBron James, the forward will always be welcome in LA.

Read: Kyle Kuzma's contract could upgrade to $25 million next year

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Kyle Kuzma is a key element in Washington's future

Kyle Kuzma shoots over Patrick Williams

The Washington Wizards are a franchise that has faced a number of ups and downs. After a great era featuring the pair of John Wall and Bradley Beal, the Wizards fell into a bit of a flux after trading Wall.

The arrival of Russell Westbrook as the point guard still presented hope as they clawed their way into the playoffs. However, this era was just as short-lived.

As things stand, the Wizards are on the verge of change, and Kyle Kuzma is a key element in that process. Kuzma has displayed his potential to be a star-caliber player, and this aspect makes him invaluable to the team.

He has shown improvements in scoring with consistent effort on the rebounding and defensive front. With gradual improvement in his playmaking skills, Kuzma is practically the whole package.

The latent potential within the roster was one of the reasons Bradley Beal chose to re-sign with the Wizards. With Kyle Kuzma being a big part of that, Washington may consider holding onto him next season.