Kyle Kuzma: I would rather be talked about bad in LA than not talked about in Orlando

Kyle Kuzma explained in a very simple comment why players often want to play in big markets rather than small markets, and it all has to do with relevancy.

Kuzma was on SiriusXM NBA Radio on Friday and was asked about the media’s coverage of his Los Angeles Lakers. He says he loves all the attention.

“Obviously the national media loves the Lakers. Everybody talks about it, and when you add LeBron James to the mix — one of the greatest players — you’re going to have even more,” Kuzma said. “For me, I wouldn’t want it any other way. I want people to talk about me, good or bad. Because if you’re not, you’re not doing something right. I’d rather be talked about bad in LA than play in Orlando and not get talked about.”

.@kylekuzma says the media coverage of the @Lakers doesn't bother him.

"I'd rather be talked about bad in L.A. than play in Orlando and not get talked about, so."

Listen to our #NBAAllStar coverage all weekend: https://t.co/KthHqIxQei pic.twitter.com/WminINhCS6

— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) February 15, 2019

Players want to be part of the conversation, they want to be thought of and not forgotten, which is a challenge many teams face. That’s part of the reason why Anthony Davis wants out of New Orleans, especially if he can be traded to the Lakers. This comment is also something the Pelicans need to consider when weighing a potential trade with the Lakers. If they believe Kuzma wouldn’t be happy playing for them — and they know Lonzo Ball wouldn’t either — then they wouldn’t have much reason to deal Davis there.