LeBron Predicts ‘Giant Leap’ For Former Ute Kuzma

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – LeBron James is buying stock in former University of Utah forward Kyle Kuzma. On Thursday, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar predicted a “giant leap” for his purple and gold teammate on Twitter.

Responding to a tweet from TheHoopCentral, James offered a simple but straightforward endorsement for Kuzma.

“Name an NBA player you think will take a giant leap this season,” the account tweeted.

Kyle Kuzma! https://t.co/W2oDJkFLP7

— LeBron James (@KingJames) December 4, 2020

“Kyle Kuzma!” James responded.

Kuzma received more than his fair share of criticism from NBA fans two seasons ago as the Lakers missed the postseason despite signing James in the offseason. The former Ute was blamed for the Lakers lackluster play due to his poor efficiency and high volume shooting numbers.

The combo forward earned a championship ring with the Lakers this past season despite having career-low averages in points, rebounds, assists, and field goal percentage.

Kuzma began his career with a surprising rookie season that led to his selection on the All-Rookie team. The 27th overall pick averaged 16.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.8 assists while shooting a promising 36 percent from the three-point line.

Bron is buying @kylekuzma stock this season 📈 pic.twitter.com/315HQ5754z

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) December 4, 2020

The Lakers forward saw his numbers take a significant hit after the team acquired Anthony Davis and Danny Green which pushed Kuzma out of the starting lineup.

Though Green has since been traded, Kuzma may once again find difficulty earning bigger minutes in the Lakers rotation. During the shortened offseason, the Lakers acquired guards Dennis Schroder and Wesley Matthews and added former Los Angeles Clippers forward Montrezl Harrell.

The Laker are set to open their preseason schedule against the Clippers on December 11.