Author of 70 points in two matches, Kyle Kuzma makes a resounding return to business after the All-Star Weekend break. After peaking at 36 points (with 8 rebounds and 7 assists) on Friday in the loss to the Spurs, “Kuz” did it again tonight, with 34 points and 13 rebounds, still in the loss, against the Cavaliers.
Regular all season, his first away from Los Angeles, the winger is raising his level of play as the final sprint approaches. ” In recent weeks, since the last matches before the break, I have a good feeling with my shooting. Not just 3-pointers, but also mid-range, I’m comfortable and finding a rhythm. It’s a good thing for me” he explains.
The figures speak for themselves: since December 22, or 28 matches, he has posted averages of 21.5 points (48.5% on shots, 37.3% on three-pointers) and 9.9 rebounds. Averages well above those of the season (17 points and 8.8 rebounds).
The Flint native’s progress has been constant over the months, and his coach Wes Unseld Jr sees this as a sign of a player gaining confidence in a new environment. ” It has shown stable and sustained progress, it is improving month after month. He plays with more confidence as the games go on.“
In the absence of Bradley Beal, who will only return next season, and pending the reinforcement of Kristaps Porzingis, who is still battling with a painful knee, Kyle Kuzma therefore takes responsibility in attack. An essential progression to keep alive the hopes of “play-in” of the Wizards (11th, 27-33).
Still under contract next season, the former Laker is in the process of earning his place in this new club project, now centered around Beal and Porzingis. At 26, he is having his best career season and seems to have found, in the American capital, a club in which he can continue to flourish.
