Dallas won’t buy out Khris Middleton after trade with Wizards
The Dallas Mavericks once again surprised the NBA world sending Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards the day before the trade deadline.
The Mavericks sent Davis, D’Angelo Russell, Jaden Hardy and Dante Exum to the Wizards in exchange for Chris MiddletonMarvin Bagley III, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham and five future draft picks. Branham was later traded to the Charlotte Hornets for Tyus Jones.
Among Dallas’ new players, Middleton provides the most value. Some, however, predicted that he would be bought out. But according to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, it is would not be the case.
“Kris Middleton is not being bought out and should make his debut for the Mavs on Saturday in San Antonio,” Siegel reported on X.
The 34-year-old Middleton, a three-time All-Star, should provide immediate scoring off the bench. Although injuries have slowed him down in recent years, he still poses a threat with his shooting. He is also a capable defender.
In 34 games with the Wizards this season, he averaged 10.3 points, 3.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists.
He could too serve as a mentor to Cooper Flaggwhose role in the Mavericks is suddenly even greater with the departure of Davis and the continued absence of Kyrie Irving due to an ACL injury.
It could even be argued that Middleton and Flagg have the same style of play, and the 19-year-old rookie just has more rebounds.
Mavericks Interim General Manager Michael Finley stressed the need to instill a “winning culture” to the team after the exit of Davis and company.
Middleton is expected to join Jones, Bagley, Klay Thompson and Brandon Williams on the second unit.
2026-02-06 06:33:00
