The Cleveland Cavaliers are gearing up for a serious playoff push this season, putting an end to any uncertainty surrounding Donovan Mitchell’s future by offering him a contract extension this summer. While the team boasts a strong young core, they can’t afford to delay building a contender, especially with Eastern Conference rivals like the Philadelphia 76ers and New York Knicks making moves to challenge reigning champions, the Boston Celtics.
Meanwhile, the Washington Wizards are likely headed to the bottom of the NBA standings, aiming for a top pick in the talent-rich 2025 NBA Draft. With a promising young core already in place, securing a high draft pick would perfectly set them up for the future. As a result, players like Kyle Kuzma, a solid 3-and-D forward, could be traded to a contender.
**Proposed Trade:**
*Cavaliers receive*: Kyle Kuzma
*Wizards receive*: Isaac Okoro, Max Strus, 2031 First-Round Pick (CLE), 2025 Second-Round Pick (MIL), 2027 Second-Round Pick (DEN)
This trade would allow the Cavaliers to add a versatile forward like Kuzma, greatly enhancing their chances in the East. In return, the Wizards gain a development project in Okoro and a veteran in Strus, who could later be traded for additional assets. However, since Okoro recently signed a summer extension, he won’t be eligible for trade until January 15, 2025, meaning this hypothetical deal would have to wait.
**Cavaliers Solidify Their Contender Status**
The Cavaliers have flashed potential as contenders over the last two seasons, led by Donovan Mitchell. With a need to shore up their forward position, adding Kuzma—who averaged 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists last season with the Wizards—would bolster their lineup. Kuzma’s experience as a championship-caliber role player during his time with the Lakers would further benefit the Cavs, bridging the gap between their guards and big men.
Kuzma’s ability to defend, rebound, and score in isolation would complement the Cavs’ existing roster, adding much-needed versatility. He’d also be a defensive asset alongside Mobley and Allen, helping the team compete against elite forwards in the East.
With Kuzma in his prime and locked into a contract, he offers the offensive upgrade the Cavaliers need outside of their undersized backcourt.
**Wizards Continue Their Rebuild**
Kuzma has been a standout for the Wizards over the past three seasons, but his time with the team could be winding down as they focus on developing young talent and preparing for the future. Players like Bilal Coulibaly would take on larger roles in Kuzma’s absence, giving the Wizards’ younger core more opportunities to grow. Malcolm Brogdon will provide leadership while Jordan Poole works to revive his career.
Isaac Okoro, still a work in progress, would benefit from a less pressurized environment in Washington. Without the need to contend immediately, the Wizards would have time to develop Okoro, who could form a strong defensive duo with Coulibaly on the perimeter. Max Strus, a veteran 3-and-D player, could also be flipped in a future trade for more assets.
**Two Teams with Different Goals**
For the Wizards, there’s no urgency to keep producing wins with veterans like Kuzma, whose developmental ceiling is mostly reached. Trading him for future assets like Okoro and draft picks sets them up for long-term success, particularly with a coveted first-round pick in 2031.
The Cavaliers, on the other hand, can’t afford to wait. With Donovan Mitchell playing at an All-NBA level, they need to go all-in to improve their chances in the playoffs. Acquiring a forward like Kuzma would bridge the gap between their guards and big men, positioning them as serious contenders in the Eastern Conference.
A starting lineup of Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, Kyle Kuzma, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen would rank among the best in the league. Coupled with depth and Kenny Atkinson’s coaching, the Cavaliers could challenge the top teams in the East and make a legitimate run at the title, provided Garland and Mobley continue to develop into consistent All-Star-level players.
