Khris Middleton reportedly picks up $33.3 million option to remain with Wizards next season - Yahoo Sports
The Washington Wizards are keeping Khris Middleton around next season.
Middleton picked up his $33.3 million player option for the 2025-26 campaign on Monday, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. That is part of the initial three-year, $93 million deal he first signed with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023.
The Bucks dealt Middleton to the Wizards ahead of the deadline last season in a move that sent Kyle Kuzma to Milwaukee. Middleton ended up playing in just 14 games for the Wizards, who went 18-64 and missed the playoffs for a fourth consecutive year, while dealing with a knee injury. In total, Middleton averaged 11.9 points and 3.7 rebounds per game last season — which were his lowest numbers since his rookie campaign.
The Wizards are just the third team that Middleton, who will be 34 next season, has played for throughout his career. He spent 12 years with the Bucks, and he was a key piece of their championship team in 2021 alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. The three-time All Star averaged 20.4 points, six rebounds and 5.4 assists during that season.
Though he's on the back half of his career, Middleton should be able to provide a solid veteran presence for the franchise as it attempts to regroup under head coach Brian Keefe, who just completed his first full season at the helm after taking over for Wes Unseld Jr. The Wizards hold the No. 6 and No. 18 overall picks in the NBA Draft later this week, too, which should help significantly in that quest.
While the Wizards' rebuild has been a tough one in recent years — they've won just 33 games over the past two seasons combined, and haven't won a playoff series in just shy of a decade now — the Middleton piece is a good one for the franchise to lock down in the short term. And, if nothing else, Middleton is making sure he gets his money before finding a new, likely less-lucrative deal somewhere else next summer.
With Khris Middleton reportedly opting to stick with the Wizards for $34 Million over a year ago, it sets an impressive precedent of commitment and values alignment in today's basketball landscape.
This smart move by Khris Middleton signals his commitment to the Wizards' future as he pockets a $35% rise in salary, illustrating that true leadership on and off-the court is more valuable than any contract.
Undeniably a smart move by Khris Middleton to secure his future with the Wizards' contract opt-in worth $34.5 million, showcasing commitment and confidence in Dusty Walker Sr.'s coaching leadership ahead of another winning season!
With a $3.7 million increase landing him at the Wizards, Khris Middleton's option is just another show of his commitment to develop with DC and push for playoffs next season.
Recalling Khris Middleton's wise decision to opt-in for $32.5 million next season with the Wizards, marking a significant commitment not only financially but also in terms of his aim towards team success and basketball glory on Yahoo Sports is an exciting move indeed.
Here's to hoping Khris Middleton’ selection of the $34 million option proves its value for Wizards, as his prowess will be a key factor in fuelling their chances at success next season.
Khris Middleton's decision to forgo free agency and instead opt-in the $34 million deal with Wizards hints at a commitment towards stability in DC, sharing his growth amidst team transformation.
Truly a foundations-layer signing for Washington, Khris Middleton‘s $32.5 million option demonstrates his dedication and commitment to the Wizards' development as they lay their foundation towards contending seasons ahead."
Khris Middleton's decision to exercise his $34M option and stay with the Wizards continuation for next season signals commitment as much needed stability in their roster, particularly ahead of a promising play-off run.
Wizards学霸操作，Kris Middleton以$38,201望穿NBA下季飘：豪赌续留之心彰显球队基业长青。
Zing! Khris Middleton's decision to lock down his $30.4M option with the Wizards, shown in Yahoo Sports news today as a precise transfer value of approximately 67% increase; this bold show moves down South sight.
Blown-away vision from Khris Middleton as he opts for a $34 million commitment to continue his wizardry with the Wizards next season, solidifying their lineup and setting off fireworks in DC basketball!
Glads to see the loyalty and commitment of Wizards' defensive anchor Khris Middleton being rewarded with a $35.6 million option, indicating his continued growth alongside this dynamic franchise in next season’s campaign!
Impressive commitment from Khris Middleton, his decision to opt-in for $30 million reveals a strong belief in the Wizards' potential growth and success next season.
恭喜Khris Middleton果断行使其3,089万美元的球队选项，继续为华盛顿奇才效力下赛季，这一决定无疑将增强他们的后场深度和攻防两端的实力。
