The Los Angeles Lakers forward Kyle Kuzma has been going through a role change over the last two seasons after Anthony Davis joined the team via a trade from the New Orleans Pelicans. From being one of the focal points of the Lakers offense, Kuzma saw his role change to more of a role player, often coming off the bench.
This past season, the 25-year-old forward started 32 out of 68 games for the Lakers. He averaged 12.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.9 assists over those games. Head coach Frank Vogel praised Kuzma for his energy on multiple occasions. The player himself also said he made significant progress this season.
Kuzma is confident that he can produce All-Star level numbers in the NBA if he is given a consistent role. He is used to being included in trade rumors every year. And this summer is no different. Kuzma’s desire for a more consistent role could potentially play a part in him finally moving elsewhere if the Lakers are unable to give him that.
Via Tyler Conway of Bleacher Report:
“My biggest thing is I just want to play within a consistent role,” Kuzma said. “If I have that ability, I’ll be able to showcase what I can really do. There were parts of this year—and even anywhere else in my career—when I’m in a consistent space, I’m out there handling the ball, making teammates better, scoring, shooting, defending, rebounding. I think if I’m in that space, I’ll be good.”
