Los Angeles Lakers forward Kyle Kuzma has fired agents Mark Bartelstein and Zach Kurtin of Priority Sports, according to the LA Times’ Tania Ganguli. The decision was based on the third-year player’s desire to grow his business interests, according to Ganguli.
With an eye toward growing his business interests, Kyle Kuzma is parting ways with his agents, Mark Bartelstein and Zach Kurtin of Priority Sports and Entertainment, according to sources. He hasn't started meeting with prospective agents yet.
— Tania Ganguli (@taniaganguli) July 19, 2019
Kuzma, who could sign a contract extension with the Lakers next summer, has not met with prospective agents, yet. There has been speculation that he could Rich Paul, who represents four other Lakers (LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and rookie Talen Horton-Tucker). However, it should be noted that when former Laker Lonzo Ball fired his representation last year, he opted to move away from Klutch Sports.
Kuzma has been a star in terms of fan interest since his rookie year after he exploded onto the scene with an unexpectedly great season. Since then, he has grown his brand globally including some visits to China.
James has been the face of player empowerment including through his many business ventures so it’s no surprise that a younger player like Kuzma would follow in his footsteps.
Kuzma will become a restricted free agent in two years if he does not sign an extension next summer. The Lakers would be able to match any offer sheet for him.