The former NBA star is hoping for the best-case scenario in his upcoming free-agency status.
Khris Middleton is committed to the Dallas Mavericks for the remainder of the 2025-26 season.
Dallas Mavericks / Schedule
As revealed recently, Middleton is planning not to reach a buyout agreement with the Mavericks ahead of Sunday's deadline for players to leave and seek a playoff team.
Despite the rumored interest of the Denver Nuggets and several other playoff teams, the three-time All-Star is convinced to stick around with Dallas and let the rest of the season play out.
“It just gives me the best opportunity going into free agency,” Middleton told Mike Curtis of The Dallas Morning News.
Middleton is set to become a free agent as he holds an expiring $33.2 million contract.
Although he is no longer boasting an All-Star caliber, Middleton has proved he can still capably contribute as a key role player.
In eight appearances thus far with the Mavericks, Middleton is averaging 12.6 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.9 assists.
Beyond the scoring production, Middleton is fulfilling his veteran and leader role across a Dallas group that is looking to give reigning No. 1 draft pick Cooper Flagg the best development and supporting cast.
“I got a solid role here to finish the season,” Middleton said. “Hopefully I can play well and enter free agency strong, whether that’s staying here or finding another option.
"My first couple of weeks here have been great so I didn’t think it was really necessary to try to go chase something that may not work out. I thought my safest bet was to stay put.”
Upon his arrival in Dallas from the Washington Wizards as part of the Anthony Davis blockbuster deal, Middleton has reunited with Jason Kidd. The Hall of Famer was primarily responsible for giving Middleton — a second-round pick — a major career break to eventually reach stardom during their Milwaukee Bucks days.
It remains to be seen if they will reach an extended partnership after this season, but Kidd is already raving about Middleton's impact both on and off the court for Dallas.
“He’s already had some impact with us, on and off the floor,” Kidd said. “For him to be able to stay, it’s great. We’ll try not to play him 40 minutes a night, but his ability as a vet to score and to lead is something that’s needed in that locker room so we’re happy he stayed.”
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