Khris Middleton may soon reenter the trade block soon, and the Milwaukee Bucks continue to loom as an obvious fit.
The Athletic’s Josh Robbins reports that executives around the NBA expect Middleton to remain with the Washington Wizards through the trade deadline before likely reaching the buyout market. Should that happen, a return to Milwaukee would make plenty of sense, especially as the Bucks look for familiar production, spacing, and composure while trying to steady an uneven season.
Any team that brings in Khris Middleton understands it is not signing the version from the 2021 title run. The veteran is having one of the quieter seasons of his career, posting 9.8 points and 3.3 assists per game while shooting just 32.5 percent from three.
He is not likely to swing a season on his own, but for the Milwaukee Bucks, his experience, familiarity with the system, and ability to fill specific minutes could still provide real value.
Can Khris Middleton return to boost the Bucks?
Dec 31, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) drives for to the basket against Washington Wizards forward Khris Middleton (22) during the first quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
Milwaukee could benefit from adding more scoring punch to its bench. Sliding Kevin Porter Jr. into a reserve role should provide a boost, but the Bucks still sit 16th in bench scoring and remain near the bottom of the league in turnovers per game.
Bringing in someone like Middleton who is already familiar with the team culture could help steady those areas. His experience, feel for the offense, and comfort making reads have consistently allowed him to guide units without forcing the action, which could help clean up possessions and create better looks for teammates.
Mar 13, 2023; Sacramento, California, USA; Milwaukee Bucks power forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) puts his arm around small forward Khris Middleton (22) during the third quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Middleton spent more than a decade in Milwaukee developing alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo, and the chemistry they built never came by accident. Over the years, they showed a natural feel for timing on lobs and comfort operating in specific two man actions that consistently stressed defenses.
Given how stagnant the Bucks’ offense has looked at times this season, tapping back into that familiarity could provide a much needed spark and help restore some rhythm when scoring becomes difficult.
There is no guarantee Khris Middleton will reach the buyout market, but if he does, the Milwaukee Bucks should be one of the first teams to pick up the phone and check on a reunion.