Kuz entered the season fresh off signing a 3-year, $40 million extension with the Purple & Gold but largely disappointed throughout his 4th year campaign. The Lakers wing ended up the butt of the internet’s jokes, with trolls taking shots at him on the regular. But once upon a time, Kyle Kuzma was seen as a rising star in the league. One Instagram page called @balldontstop wanted to remind fans of just that, and guess who responded – Kyle Kuzma himself.
The page defended the Lakers star, claiming how he had to make a huge adjustment in his role and play style to assimilate under LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Kuz had just one word to validate everything the page had said about him.
Kuzma’s production for LA last season wasn’t really anything to write home about, averaging 12.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists. He improved as a three-point shooter, going from 31.6% to 36.1% from the previous season.
However, he was an absolute dumpster fire during their first-round loss against the Phoenix Suns. Considering Anthony Davis was out for half the series and LeBron James was hobbled, the Lakers needed Kyle Kuzma to step up in the worst way. We’ll have to wait and see if he pulls through with his promise for next season.
