Kyle Kuzma’s return to Capital One Arena on Friday was more than just another game on the schedule—it was a moment of reflection, growth, and a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA. Now wearing a Milwaukee Bucks uniform, Kuzma faced the Washington Wizards for the first time since being traded earlier this month.
The move was part of a significant mid-season deal that sent three-time All-Star Khris Middleton and rookie AJ Johnson to Washington in exchange for Kuzma, Patrick Baldwin Jr., and a future second-round pick. It was a trade designed to align with both teams’ long-term goals, with Washington committed to a full rebuild and Milwaukee doubling down on its championship aspirations.
Reflecting on his departure from the Wizards, Kuzma acknowledged to Double Take Sports during his postgame interview that the move was inevitable.
“Yeah, for sure,” Kuzma said. “I don’t think it was a secret. I think the writing was on the wall in a sense here, and (I’m) not saying that was a good or a bad thing. You know, I think everything in life really has an expiration date, and it was my time to go, and it was my time to go (in a way that was) beneficial to all parties involved. This organization (Washington) has a bright future. They have a plan that they’re trying to accomplish with the rebuild and growing and developing these players, and they’re doing a great job.”
Despite leaving Washington, Kuzma made it clear that he cherishes his time with the Wizards. “I wouldn’t trade this experience and being here and being a Wizard for anything,” he said. “I think it was a great time for me, a time of growth, a time of figuring out who I am as a person.”
A Hard-Fought Battle in His Return
Kuzma’s return to D.C. was tightly contested, with the Bucks escaping with a 104-101 victory. He contributed 19 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, playing a key role in Milwaukee’s success. Brook Lopez added 18 points and nine rebounds to help seal the win, while Giannis Antetokounmpo, limited by foul trouble, finished with 18 points in 19 minutes.
On the Wizards’ side, rookie Alex Sarr led all scorers with 22 points, continuing to impress in his debut season. Middleton, facing his former team for the first time, finished with 12 points and had a last-second opportunity to tie the game, but his three-pointer missed at the buzzer.
A New Chapter, On and Off the Court
Kuzma’s transition to Milwaukee has been seamless so far, and beyond basketball, his personal life is also entering a new phase. Just days before his return to Washington, he announced his engagement to Canadian model Winnie Harlow, marking another major milestone in his journey.
As he continues his career in Milwaukee, his time in Washington will always hold a special place in his heart. But as he said himself, “everything in life really has an expiration date”—and his next chapter is already well underway.