The most likely outcome for Khris Middleton at the trade deadline

With the NBA trade deadline less than a month away, most likely outcome for Washington Wizards veteran forward Chris Middleton has come into focus as league executives weigh his future with the franchise.

According to a report Monday from Josh Robbins of the Athletics, league sentiment points to Middleton staying with the Wizards until the deadline before eventually becoming a buyout candidate.

“Middleton, 34, has shown some signs of life of late, but no longer looks like a potential difference maker for a struggling team. Most league sources The Athletic spoke with say they think Middleton’s most likely outcome is to stay with the Wizards until the end of the term and be a buyout candidate.”

Middleton is in the final year of a three-year, $93 million contract and is making $31 million this season. He is set to enter unrestricted free agency this summer, a factor that has complicated his trade market as the deadline approaches.

Wizards forward Khris Middleton is emerging as a likely buyout candidate

In his first full season with the Wizards, Middleton has played a measured role as the organization continues to prioritize long-term development. Through 29 appearances, the veteran forward is averaging 9.8 points, four rebounds and 3.3 assists per game while shooting 42.9 percent from the field and 32.5 percent from three. He is logging 24.3 minutes per contest as Washington balances veteran experience with opportunities for younger players.

Middleton was bought by Washington last February from Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for Kyle Kuzma as part of a wider roster reset. Since then, the Wizards have remained near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings as they continue to evaluate their veteran assets ahead of future roster decisions.

Across the league, the size of Middleton’s contract and declining impact on the field have made it difficult for contending teams to justify surrendering assets at the deadline. A buyout scenario would allow Middleton to seek a new opportunity later in the season while giving Washington additional financial flexibility.

For now, the Washington Wizards continue with their schedule that follows a 110–106 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday evening. Washington enters Thursday night’s home opener against the Denver Nuggets (29-14) with a 10-32 record and a seven-game losing streak. Tipoff is set for 7:00 PM ET on MNMT as the Wizards continue to navigate a challenging season amid trade deadline decisions looming.