Kyle Kuzma made a notable return to Washington as a member of the Milwaukee Bucks, scoring 19 points in a closely contested 104-101 victory over the Wizards on Friday night. The game marked his first matchup against his former team since being traded earlier this month. Kuzma, who spent three and a half seasons with the Wizards, described the experience as both strange and coincidental, adding a unique twist to the already intense competition.
Kuzma's transition to the Bucks followed a trade that sent Khris Middleton to Washington. Despite the victory, the Bucks faced challenges, with Bobby Portis Jr. unavailable due to a drug suspension and Damian Lillard sidelined by a hamstring injury. Giannis Antetokounmpo also grappled with foul trouble throughout the game. Kuzma himself fouled out after playing only 19 minutes, yet his contribution was pivotal to the team's success.
Kuzma expressed mixed emotions about facing his former teammates, describing moments of instinctive camaraderie during the game.
"One time in the first quarter, it might have been Alex (Sarr), he might have blocked a shot. Bilal (Coulibaly) came over to dap him up," Kuzma recalled.
"Then I dapped up Bilal, just by instinct. It was weird," he added.
Kuzma acknowledged the upheaval of the past few weeks but embraced the opportunity for a fresh start in Milwaukee. He also expressed gratitude for his time in Washington, highlighting the valuable experiences gained during his tenure with the Wizards.
"I wouldn't trade this experience and being here and being a Wizard for anything," Kuzma stated.
As for Khris Middleton, his debut with the Wizards was marked by a missed last-second three-pointer that could have tied the game. Reflecting on recent changes, Middleton acknowledged the complexities of transitioning teams.
"Definitely a lot going on these last couple weeks," Middleton remarked.
The game's highlights included Alex Sarr's impressive block in the first quarter, underscoring the competitive spirit on both sides. Despite the narrow loss for the Wizards, Kuzma appreciated returning to familiar surroundings and sleeping in his own bed after joining Milwaukee.
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