Looking Back On Kuzma Rejecting Dallas!

        The Dallas Mavericks are now in the NBA Finals for the first time in 13 years. The moves they made at the trade deadline, acquiring PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford played huge roles in their successful playoff run. However, there was another trade the Mavericks were looking to do but didn't end up happening. The reason why is the player involved thought they weren't a legit title contender. 

        The Mavericks were originally looking to acquire forward Kyle Kuzma from the Washington Wizards. There are no reports of what the trade package looked like but it was enough that both teams agreed on the terms. However, the Wizards went to Kuzma first about the deal and he turned the whole operation down. It's not like he has a no-trade clause in his deal, the Wizards simply honored his opinion and wish. Kuzma finished the season in Washington having missed the playoffs and ending up with the second-worst record in the Eastern Conference. 

        Kuzma went on to say "In my career, I won a championship. So, I understand that when we play this game of basketball it's not about contending for a playoff spot. It's about contending for an NBA championship. There's only like three or four contenders - true contenders. I just felt like our timeline didn't line up." Crazy what can happen in this league in half a season. 

        This scenario worked out very well for the Mavericks as they were able to make deals elsewhere, acquiring Washington from the Charlotte Hornets and Gafford from the Washington Wizards. They would likely not be able to make these moves if they ended up with Kuzma. Now they find themselves in the Finals and both of their acquisitions have been incredible in the postseason. The Wizards will look to trade Kuzma this offseason so hopefully, he doesn't miss out on another opportunity.