Mock B/R Trade Sends Kyle Kuzma to Suns for Jae Crowder, Others

Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma may be the best the Phoenix Suns can get for Jae Crowder. In this Bleacher Report mock trade, Kuzma arrives to the Valley for Crowder and more.

The Phoenix Suns are exactly three weeks removed from the trade deadline, and pressure continues to mount on the organization to make a move to improve the roster. 

Bleacher Report's Mo Dakhil pieced together potential trades for a few contenders around the league, and Phoenix's deal sees Crowder finally out the door for Kyle Kuzma. 

Suns Acquire Kyle Kuzma in B/R Mock Trade

Washington Wizards Receive: Jae Crowder, Josh Okogie, 2023 first-round pick

Phoenix Suns Receive: Kyle Kuzma

"If Washington believes it won't be able to retain Kuzma, it will get a lot of phone calls about him. The first call should come from the Phoenix Suns. They have been without Jae Crowder, who demanded a trade before the season started and hasn't played a minute ... Crowder would fill a need as a more stout body for the Wizards. Even though he has lost a step, he would fortify Washington's defensive frontcourt. Deni Avdija and Rui Hachimura are similar body types, Crowder gives the Wizards a little more beef.

"The real prize for the Wizards is getting an unprotected first-round pick in the upcoming draft. Phoenix might try to protect the pick, but there is going to be a massive bidding war for Kuzma. It would be a steep price for the Suns, but they simply cannot stand pat as their championship window is closing."

The Suns are one of the few teams with control of their future draft capital, leaving more wiggle room for assets to be included in a potential deal. Although parting with Okogie would be tough due to his energy/defense off the bench, Phoenix may feel as if Kuzma is the best package they can receive. 

The Suns desperately need another scoring option behind Booker. That could very well be Cam Johnson, but his early play in the season on top of his injury may suggest he's better suited behind another shooter.

Kuzma has a player option for the 2023-24 season for $13 million.