Washington Wizards forward Khris Middleton has exercised his $33.3 million player option for the 2025-26 season, per ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Washington Wizards three-time NBA All-Star Khris Middleton has picked up his $33.3 million player option for the 2025-26 season, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/skVrixdlA5
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 23, 2025
Middleton, 33, is a three-time All-Star who was traded to the Wizards in February as part of the Kyle Kuzma trade. The 6-foot-7 forward averaged 10.7 points per game across 14 appearances with Washington.
The Wizards went an improved 6-8 in games Middleton played, showcasing the positive affect the veteran had on Washington’s young group.
Middleton picking up his player option was an expected move, considering his injury-riddled past would’ve made it difficult to attract that type of money on the open market.
The former NBA Champion will likely start for the Wizards next season, serving as a veteran mentor for Washington’s core of young talent, which includes Bilal Coulibaly, Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington, Kyshawn George, AJ Johnson and whoever they select in this year’s draft.
Here’s some additional thoughts on Middleton exercising his player option:
Thoughts on Middleton picking up his option:
• Played well in D.C. post-deadline
• Has some injury concerns but showed he still has game
• Washington went an improved 6-8 with Middleton in the lineup
• Will serve as a veteran to the young core next season, likely starts.
— Greg Finberg (@GregFinberg) June 23, 2025