Kyle Kuzma reportedly rejected being traded to the Dallas Mavericks

Kyle Kuzma was at the center of several rumors during the exchange period of the NBAespecially a possible move to the Dallas Mavericks or even the Sacramento Kings. However, the 28-year-old player ended up remaining in the Washington Wizards. And it was precisely the winger’s own desire that was the main factor in staying in the capital of the U.S. What caught many by surprise, mainly because the franchise is undergoing reconstruction, while the other two teams mentioned are fighting for playoff spots in the Western Conference.

During an interview with the journalist Josh Robbins, from “The Athletic”, Kuzma spoke about his desire to be on the Wizards. The number 33 revealed that the Mavericks were close to an agreement with his team last Thursday, the 8th. It is worth remembering that the player had already surprised everyone by choosing to stay on the team. washington in free agency when he signed his current four-year, $90 million contract.

“Man, what I can say is that Dallas was very close to that. Wizards showed me their proposal. They didn’t want me to leave, but if it was my will, they would. They asked me if I wanted to leave and everything. So, I responded that I wanted to stay and continue building something here. And then the conversations ended after that”he stated.

According to the journalist, Kuzma’s signing with the Wizards amid the departures of Bradley Beal for the Phoenix Suns It is Kristap Porzingis for the Boston Celtics led to mutual trust between the player and Michael Winger, president of basketball operations. The winger does not have a clause that allows him to exchange, but both agreed that the deal would be discussed between the parties if a good proposal or if the athlete’s desire emerged.

“Well, I can say that I was once an NBA champion. So, I understand that competing for a place in the playoffs is not enough for me. I know how good it is to be at the top. So, at this point, I would only trade Washington for the three or four real title contenders this year. I think Dallas has a good team, but it still has a way to go. Our timelines didn’t go together. That’s what I felt, at least. I have a great relationship with the people who currently run the Wizards. Winger has been great and direct with me since we started working together. He is a very blunt person, just like me. So that helps. In this business, which is so difficult and conflicting, I think it is a luxury for me to be in my current position. I want to continue helping the team as they plan their next step.”concluded.