Khris Middleton had been flirting with pursuing a contract buyout with the Dallas Mavericks recently. Several contenders, including the Denver Nuggets, were reportedly interested in signing the former Milwaukee Bucks champion to a deal had that happened. However, NBA insider Marc Stein reports that Middleton intends to finish the season in Dallas rather than seek other opportunities.
Denver denied the opportunity to sign Middleton
Had Middleton hit the buyout market, he would have been incredibly in demand, and Denver would have been a justifiable destination. The Nuggets, led by MVP Nikola Jokic and All-Star Jamal Murray, are among the top teams in the Western Conference and have a shot at winning it all. Beefing up the roster for a stretch run would have made plenty of sense.
Like most of Denver's top players, Middleton has experience on the big stage. He had one of the most clutch playoff runs of the past decade, sinking big shot after big shot en route to Milwaukee's title win in 2021. Even if Middleton has regressed since then, the forward could still help a team in need of wing depth, and the Nuggets fit the bill.
Middleton is set up nicely in Dallas down the stretch
It's only been a few games, but Middleton has been a snug fit in Dallas, the state where he played his college basketball. That familiar element has seemingly given him a boost since being traded from the Washington Wizards in the Anthony Davis stunner.
Across seven games, he is averaging 13.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.9 assists. While those aren't numbers like he put up in Milwaukee, he has looked somewhat rejuvenated since reuniting with former Bucks coach Jason Kidd in Dallas. He's also getting solid playing time, starting in five of his seven games.
Even if Dallas isn't a clear-cut playoff contender, Middleton will have an opportunity to showcase his value down the stretch. If he continues playing well, it will set him up nicely for a payday this summer, when he will be a free agent. That may be a better outlook than going to a contender where minutes are not guaranteed and losing value before free agency.
Dallas should have no problem whatsoever with Middleton's decision. Not only does he bring battle-tested experience to the locker room, but he is also the perfect mentor for No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg as he grows into a phenomenon. As long as the rest of the season goes well, it wouldn't be surprising if Middleton and the Mavericks looked to continue their partnership beyond this season.
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