PHOENIX — Khris Middleton made his Dallas Mavericks debut on Tuesday, showcasing his experience and scoring ability despite the team’s 120-111 loss to the Phoenix Suns. The veteran forward’s integration into the Mavericks lineup was highlighted by a smooth three-pointer, assisted by fellow newcomer Tyus Jones, amid a tough game where Dallas faced a 31-point deficit before rallying late in the fourth quarter.
Strong Late-Game Response Reflects Team’s Determination
Though the Mavericks fell for the eighth straight time, Middleton praised his team’s refusal to give up. After trailing by more than 30 points, Dallas fought back to narrow the gap to six with just two minutes remaining. Middleton, finishing with 13 points and five rebounds, expressed admiration for his teammates’ spirit despite the mounting losses.
“I loved the way we fought back,”
said Middleton.
“Guys didn’t hang their heads or feel sorry for themselves.”
Trade Deadline Moves Bring New Veteran Leadership
Middleton arrived in Dallas through a three-team trade last week that sent Anthony Davis, Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell, and Dante Exum to the Washington Wizards. Alongside him, the Mavericks also acquired Tyus Jones, Marvin Bagley III, and AJ Johnson. This infusion of veteran talent offers Dallas leadership and versatility amid a roster undergoing transition.
The Mavericks are shifting toward integrating younger talents like Cooper Flagg but value Middleton’s multi-level scoring and leadership to guide the team during these final months of the season.
Middleton’s NBA Journey and Relationship With Coach Kidd
Dallas is the fourth franchise in Middleton’s NBA career, which began when the Detroit Pistons drafted him 39th overall in 2012 before trading him to Milwaukee. His connection to Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd dates back to their time together in Milwaukee, where Kidd first coached Middleton and witnessed his development into a three-time All-Star and NBA champion.
“Some would say he was a throw-in,”
Kidd reflected about the trade that brought Middleton to Milwaukee.
“He’s a lot bigger than you think. He can post. He can shoot it. For me, it was exciting to be able to work with Khris early on in his basketball journey. He did all the hard work. When we got him, he was our best player at the time. Giannis [Antetokounmpo] not that far behind.”
Performance and Role Adjustment in Dallas
This season, Middleton is averaging 10.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.2 assists—his lowest scoring output since his rookie year. While he is no longer the dominant 20-point scorer, he continues to be effective with midrange shots and spacing the floor with timely threes, skills Dallas desperately needs amid its scoring challenges.
Middleton came off the bench on Tuesday, but Coach Kidd indicated the possibility of him starting as soon as the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Lakers, a matchup the Mavericks are eager to win, especially given their ongoing losing streak.
Veteran Presence to Bolster Team Culture and Development
With 14 years of NBA experience, Middleton is now among the senior figures on the Mavericks roster, joining Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson, Dwight Powell, and Tyus Jones. He credits Kidd with instilling veteran responsibilities, particularly the importance of honesty and leadership within the team.
Middleton said,
“When you see something, say something. If a guy has a question, be honest with them. That’s the approach I try to take.”
This leadership environment is crucial as Dallas rebuilds for the future while aiming to support promising players like Cooper Flagg by fostering a competitive mindset and team pride.
Future Uncertainty Despite Veteran Impact
Middleton is currently on an expiring contract worth $33 million, and while he fits well as a veteran presence on a rebuilding Dallas team, his stay could be short-term. Many playoff-contending teams have shifted focus to the buyout market, and Middleton, as a quality candidate with valuable experience, could attract interest from teams seeking depth at the deadline.
When asked about his role and future with the Mavericks, Middleton responded,
“Nah. Not yet. We haven’t got to that point. Don’t know that we will, but my focus right now is just playing basketball.”
Competitive Drive Remains Central to Team Identity
Middleton highlighted the importance of pride and effort, especially in moments when the scoreboard looks bleak. The Mavericks’ near comeback against Phoenix demonstrated their refusal to quit despite mounting losses, potentially serving as a foundation for the remainder of the season.
“Just fighting,”
Middleton stated.
“At some point, you do have to stand up for your pride. You have to forget about everything else that happened before and just compete.”
Upcoming Challenges as Mavericks Head into All-Star Break
With the All-Star break approaching, the Mavericks have one last opportunity to halt their losing streak. Their next opponent, the Los Angeles Lakers, currently hold an undefeated record against Dallas since the trade of Luka Doncic last year. The intensity of this matchup will test the Mavericks’ resolve and provide another stage for Middleton to display his leadership and skill with the team.
Asked Khris Middleton about his fit with the #Mavs and if he’s had any conversations with the front office about his immediate future.
“Nah. Not yet. We haven’t got to that point. Don’t know that we will, but my focus right now is just playing basketball.” pic.twitter.com/aOmVnMUfwh
— Mike Curtis (@MikeACurtis2) February 10, 2026
