Washington Wizards rookie Corey Kispert momentarily drew the ire of Kyle Kuzma after costing his teammate a triple-double.
Kuzma had 19 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists in the Wizards’ 112-106 win over the Orlando Magic. However, in the waning moments Kuzma was looking for his first career triple-double when he found an open Kispert with a kickout pass.
Kispert passed up the corner three and quickly swung the ball to Kentavious Caldwell-Pope on the wing.
Kuzma vented his frustration by throwing his hands up and yelling “C’mon Corey” loudly. He was in so much disbelief he missed the rebound off Caldwell-Pope’s missed three.
Kyle Kuzma, with 19 points, 10 rebounds & 9 assists, upset at Corey Kispert for making the extra pass.
— John Schuhmann (@johnschuhmann) January 13, 2022
"C'mon Corey!" pic.twitter.com/RLiyPpK6Wr
Players are particular about milestones, especially recording a triple-double. The assist would have culminated an impressive all-around game for the former Los Angeles Laker.
Still, the Wizards (22-20) won their third straight game and second without three-time All-Star Bradley Beal.
For Kuzma, he has been on a nine-game tear as his role has expanded in his first season in Washington.
In the end the win is most important. One can assume Kuzma didn’t get too upset at Kispert. There weren’t any punches thrown unlike their teammates did Tuesday night. Kuzma’s reaction to Kispert passing up the shot was more hilarious than anything.
