Wizards' Kyle Kuzma Says He Was in a 'Dark Place' Over Narratives Around Lakers Exit

When Kyle Kuzma was traded from the Los Angeles Lakers to the Washington Wizards, some fans of the purple and gold were hard on him, and the narratives surrounding his exit from the team put him in a dark place.

It hurt me a little when people saw me that way.

John Wall, a former Wizard, wrote an essay about his mental health struggles. Kevin Love and DeMar DeRozan are two NBA players who have spoken out about their mental health.

The Brooklyn Nets made a selection in the NBA draft. They traded him and Lopez to the Lakers in June of last year.

During their run to the NBA Finals in 2020, the Lakers had an important role for Kyle Kuzma off the bench. He averaged 12.8 points, 4.5 rebound and 1.3 assists while shooting 43.6 percent from the floor and 31.6% from deep in 61 regular-season games.

He averaged 10 points and 3.1 rebound while shooting 43 percent from the floor and 31.3 percent from deep as the Lakers went on to win the title.

In 70 games, he averaged 18.7 points, 4.5 rebound and 1.3 assists, while shooting 45.6% from the floor and 30% from deep.

As Anthony Davis didn't join the franchise and take over his position, Kuzma got more playing time in the starting lineup.

Since moving to Washington, Kuzma has been a key part of the starting rotation. He averaged 17.1 points, 8.5 rebound and 3.5 assists in 66 games last season while shooting 45.2% from the floor and 34.1% from deep.

He said in March that his time in Washington was better than his time in LA.

A change of scenery has been a great change for me. When I was with my former team, I changed my role every single year to fit in with the best players and maximize my potential. It's been different here because I don't have to do that. My role is different here. I was more of a scorer in the first 25 games than I am now. It's great to be in a situation where I can do what I want and not worry about what others think.

I am not looking over my shoulder. I don't look at my coach when I make a mistake. The game is important to me. I want to avoid making mistakes. That is a part of growing up. I'm 26 years old but I'm getting older.

In his second year with the Wizards, Kuzma has the chance to forge his own path out of the shadow of Davis and James. He may see one of his best seasons this year.