Washington Wizards forward Khris Middletonv Milwaukee Bucks
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League execs expect a Khris Middleton buyout, with a Bucks reunion in play.
For Washington Wizards forward Khris Middleton, his future in DC is coming into sharper focus as the NBA trade deadline approaches, and league sentiment suggests a familiar ending rather than a midseason move.
According to The Athletic, Wizards beat writer Josh Robbins reports that executives around the league expect Middleton to remain in Washington through the deadline before emerging as a buyout candidate.
“Middleton, 34, has shown some signs of life lately, but no longer looks like a potential difference-maker for a contending team,” Robbins wrote. “The majority of league sources whom The Athletic spoke with said they think Middleton’s most likely outcome is to remain with the Wizards through the deadline and be a buyout candidate.”
That assessment reflects both Middleton’s contract situation and Washington’s broader direction. The three-time All-Star is earning $33.3 million this season and will enter unrestricted free agency this summer, a combination that has made matching salary and long-term value difficult for potential trade partners.
A Measured Role in Washington’s Reset
In his first full season with the Washington Wizards, Middleton has settled into a controlled, low-usage role as the organization prioritizes development over short-term wins. Through 29 appearances, the 34-year-old forward is averaging 9.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game while shooting 42.9 percent from the field and 32.5 percent from three-point range. He is playing 24.3 minutes per night as the Wizards balance veteran stability with opportunities for their young core.
Washington acquired Middleton last February from the Milwaukee Bucks in a deal that sent Kyle Kuzma the other way, a move that signaled a broader roster reset. Since then, the Wizards have remained near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, using this season to evaluate veterans without disrupting the development of key prospects.
Robbins noted that Washington is reluctant to make any move that would interfere with the growth of players like Alex Sarr, Kyshawn George, Tre Johnson, Bub Carrington, and Bilal Coulibaly. That stance further reduces the likelihood of a Middleton trade before the deadline.
Why Milwaukee Looms as a Logical Landing Spot
If Middleton does reach the buyout market, league logic points quickly back to Milwaukee. The Bucks could use additional depth on the wing, especially with Taurean Prince injured and the possibility that Amir Coffey or Kuzma could be moved in another deal. Even at this stage of his career, Middleton’s size (6-foot-7), experience, and familiarity with the system would fill a practical need.
More importantly, Middleton’s history alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo still matters. The two spent over a decade developing timing, chemistry, and comfort in specific two-man actions that once formed the backbone of Milwaukee’s offense. With the Bucks struggling to generate consistent flow at times this season, tapping back into that familiarity could help stabilize lineups and clean up possessions.
Middleton’s value would not be about volume scoring. Milwaukee currently ranks near the middle of the league in bench scoring and remains among the worst teams in turnovers per game. His ability to read the floor, keep the ball moving, and guide second units without forcing shots could address those issues in subtle but meaningful ways.
Context Matters, Even Now
Middleton is no longer the player who averaged 20.4 points during the 2020-21 regular season or 23.6 points across 23 playoff games during Milwaukee’s championship run. But he is still an NBA champion, a trusted decision-maker, and a player whose impact has often extended beyond the box score.
Washington, meanwhile, has already reshaped its roster this trade season, most notably acquiring Trae Young in a major deal with Atlanta. With long-term priorities firmly in place, holding Middleton through the deadline and reassessing via the buyout market aligns with the Wizards’ broader plan.
For now, the expectation around the league is clear: Khris Middleton is likely staying put, at least until the next phase of his career begins.