Sacramento Kings: 3 stars to target at the trade deadline
By Allen Settle
2. Kyle Kuzma
This is probably the most unlikely name in the trade rumors. The Lakers selected Kyle Kuzma as one of the few young assets to remain on the team after their rebuild this offseason.
The team had high hopes that the young star would build off his phenomena first two seasons to become the third star behind LeBron James and Anthony Davis. While the experiment is still new, the initial returns have been disappointing.
Kuzma is averaging a career-low in points (11.9), rebounds (3.5), and field goal percentage (.432). This had led to speculation that a team like the Kings may be able to pry the star away for Los Angeles.
While the Utah alumnus has been inconsistent this season, the combination of his youth and skills as a scorer makes him quite valuable.
His ability to space the floor would make him an ideal fit around an attacking guard like Fox. A starting lineup including Fox, Hield, Harrison Barnes, Kuzma, and Bagley would position the team to be competitive this season, and for years to come.
What would it cost?
One would have to assume that the Lakers would inquire about the Kings big-three in any trade talks.
However, it’s possible that Sacramento could put together a package including Bogdanovic and future draft picks to entice Rob Pelinka. Including a young player with upside, such as Harry Giles or Richaun Homes, could also be considered if the team requested a sweetener.