Lakers fans should be excited after the Bucks’ trade for Kyle Kuzma
This is something that should excite Lakers fans.
With just over 24 hours remaining before the 2025 NBA trade deadline, a lot has already unfolded. Of course, the most significant news of the week came on Saturday night when the Los Angeles Lakers shocked the world by acquiring Luka Doncic, effectively taking advantage of the Dallas Mavericks. This trade puts the Lakers in an incredible position for the next decade, and the true reasons behind the Mavericks’ decision may remain a mystery.
While other trades have trickled in over the past few days, none have garnered the same attention as the Luka deal. However, some moves will impact the Lakers’ future plans, both for this season and the long term. One such trade saw De’Aaron Fox go to the San Antonio Spurs, significantly boosting their roster and making them a serious threat to the Lakers once again.
Then, on Wednesday morning, the Milwaukee Bucks revealed they were sending veteran Khris Middleton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Kyle Kuzma. The full details of the trade are as follows: Kyle Kuzma, Patrick Baldwin Jr., and a 2025 second-round pick to the Bucks, while Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, and a 2028 first-round pick swap are sent to the Wizards.
Kuzma probably won’t boost Milwaukee’s title chances this year
You might be wondering how the trade between two Eastern Conference teams could possibly affect the Lakers’ championship hopes. The answer is simple. With Kuzma replacing Middleton in Milwaukee, the Bucks’ title chances this season are likely diminished.
It’s possible you might argue that Middleton’s struggles made this trade a necessary move, thinking that getting him out of the picture could be a net gain. That might be the case, but the Bucks will still have to adjust to Kuzma’s presence. Although playing alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo could benefit Kuzma, it’s uncertain if quick chemistry can develop.
With Milwaukee needing to adapt, it seems even less probable that they will emerge from the Eastern Conference this year. While they may not have had a strong chance against teams like the Boston Celtics or Cleveland Cavaliers anyway, this trade adds complexity to the Bucks’ championship pursuit.
Now that the Lakers have Luka Doncic on their roster, if a team like Milwaukee is still working out its issues ahead of the playoffs, it means one less contender for LAto worry about.