After being traded by the Milwaukee Bucks, Jrue Holiday found himself rerouted to a contender and had a chance to win an NBA Championship. The same path seems like it will be on the table for fellow 2021 champion Khris Middleton, who was dealt from Milwaukee to Washington earlier this year. The question is whether Middleton will eventually do so via trade or the buyout market.
Khris Middleton likely to find his way onto a contender
It didn't make much sense for Jrue Holiday to stay with Portland the first time around after he was sent there in the Damian Lillard trade. Portland dealt him to Boston to collect more assets, giving him a chance to contend. Middleton makes some sense in Washington as a veteran presence, but he could still be of use to a contender. Teams will be keeping an eye on him, especially via buyout.
Trading for Middleton at this point is difficult because of the recent injury history. He simply hasn't been able to stay on the court. However, if he starts the season in Washington and returns to form, there could be some legitimate interest in what's left of his $33.3 million expiring deal. A team that feels like they are a piece or two away could swing a desperate trade for the forward.
Yet, a buyout feels much more likely. The Wizards have already shown they are willing to part ways with veterans, as they bought out Marcus Smart's $21.6 million deal earlier this summer, paving the way for him to sign with the Lakers. Unless Middleton is playing a clear role on a playoff contender in Washington, he could meet the same fate as Smart.
If he's healthy, no shortage of teams would love to have Khris Middleton on a buyout. A smooth shot creator who has proven he can get it done on the big stage is something every franchise would love to have for a stretch run. He could certainly swing a playoff game or even a series. Of course, the big question revolves around whether he can be healthy, having played in 40 games once in three years.
If Khris Middleton does end up being moved, Milwaukee Bucks fans can at least hope he doesn't end up on a rival like Jrue Holiday did. Who knows, maybe there is a world where Middletons ends up back in green. It would go against the grain of what the Bucks have built this summer, but this team could always use a smooth, proven wing scorer.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.