Predicting the 2022-23 Washington Wizards starting lineup

WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 19: Bradley Beal #3 of the Washington Wizards reacts to a play against the Brooklyn Nets during the first half at Capital One Arena on January 19, 2022 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

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NBA Trades, Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards

Washington Wizards, Kyle Kuzma (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images) /

Washington Wizards projected starting power forward: Kyle Kuzma

In his first season with the Wizards, Kyle Kuzma…was ok! Without Beal, Kuzma’s usage went up a bit, which allowed his scoring average to jump from 12.9 in 2020-21 to 17.1 last year. However, him doing so while maintaining his efficiency, though it was still below league average (54.7 true shooting percentage compared to 54.6 in 2020-21), was impressive.

While the outside shooting remains inconsistent, Kuzma’s rim pressure (79th percentile in drives per 75 possessions, 91st percentile in adjusted field goal percentage at the rim) and playmaking (71st percentile in assist rate, 82nd percentile in Box Creation) gave the Wizards something resembling a primary option without their star.

On offense, Kuzma’s size helps him post up and shoot over smaller wings; it also makes him an ok-in-a-pinch rim protector (68th percentile in block rate, 59th percentile in dFG% at the rin vs. expected). That and his serviceable efforts guarding people and following them around could give Washington some versatility in how they use him throughout the season.

At best, expect sub-All-Star production from Kuzma if the other main contributors stay healthy. If Washinton suffers some injuries and his role expands, you may have to expect less than that.

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