Kyle Kuzma #33 (R) and Corey Kispert #24 (L) of the Washington Wizards
As the Miami Heat look to return to the NBA Finals and secure their fourth championship, acquiring seasoned and talented players is crucial. One player who could significantly boost their chances is Washington Wizards wing Kyle Kuzma. Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz proposed an intriguing blockbuster trade involving Kuzma in an August 12 article, which could reshape the landscape for the Heat.
Swartz’s trade proposal outlines a three-team deal that would see Kuzma head to Miami, Malcolm Brogdon and Josh Richardson go to the Orlando Magic, and a mix of young talent and future assets, including Cole Anthony, Jett Howard, Nikola Jović, Duncan Robinson, and a 2029 top-five protected first-round pick, land in Washington. This trade could bring significant benefits to all parties involved, but the Heat would gain a key asset in Kuzma.
Kuzma’s impressive statistics from last season—averaging 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, while shooting 35.5 percent from three-point range—make him an ideal fit for Miami. He would slot perfectly as a starting power forward between Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, providing a scoring threat and a floor-spacing presence that the Heat have lacked since Butler joined the team in 2019. His experience and championship pedigree from the Lakers’ 2020 title run only add to his appeal.
The Wizards, currently in a rebuilding phase, have been receiving interest from around the league regarding Kuzma, according to ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk. While Washington is not rushing to trade Kuzma and remains patient in their pursuit of young talent and draft picks, the Heat’s interest could drive up the trade price. Kuzma’s contract—$23 million for the 2024-25 season, decreasing to $21 million and then $19 million in the final year—makes him a cost-effective asset with increasing value, adding to his appeal for Miami.
The potential trade not only offers the Heat a dynamic scorer but also fits their financial strategy by avoiding the NBA’s tax aprons. For the Wizards, Kuzma’s contract and the potential return could be substantial, but the Heat may need to offer additional assets to secure the deal.
As the Heat seek to enhance their roster for a championship push, Kuzma represents a valuable opportunity to strengthen their squad without compromising financial flexibility. The ongoing interest and Kuzma’s favorable contract terms make this a compelling scenario to watch as the season approaches.
