The Dallas Mavericks currently hold the fate of Khris Middleton’s 2023-24 season after acquiring the 2021 NBA champion in the high-profile Anthony Davis trade with the Washington Wizards. While many expected Middleton to pursue a buyout shortly following the trade, he remains on Dallas’ roster as of late February, with the decision resting largely with the veteran player himself. The outcome will influence whether Middleton stays with Dallas or seeks a new opportunity on a playoff-contending team.
Dallas Offers Middleton Control Over Buyout Choice
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Mavericks have essentially deferred the buyout decision to Middleton. League sources shared that Middleton can opt to stay through the remainder of the season or request a buyout to join another club before the March 1 waiver deadline. Middleton, who turned 34 this offseason, recently contributed 25 points in a win over the Indiana Pacers, signaling his ongoing value for Dallas.
“Dallas has essentially left it up to newly acquired Khris Middleton to decide if he wants to stay with his new team for the rest of the season or seek a buyout, league sources say,”
Stein wrote.
“Middleton can still join a playoff-bound team if he is waived by March 1 (Sunday), but he could just opt to stay put and see where it leads. The 34-year-old scored 25 points in the Mavericks’ win Sunday at Indiana and — as has been conveyed to Middleton — Dallas will certainly still have a need for shooting next season.”
– Marc Stein, NBA Insider
Middleton’s Role and Performance Since Joining Dallas
In his first four games with the Mavericks, Middleton has averaged 16 points, nearly five rebounds, and three assists per contest, showcasing efficient shooting with a field goal percentage close to 49%, a 40% three-point clip, and an 87.5% free throw rate. Currently earning $33.3 million in the last year of his contract, Middleton’s production reflects his experience and skill, although Dallas is struggling to climb in the Western Conference standings.
Playoff Prospects and Team Context
The Mavericks sit 12th in the Western Conference, placing them outside both the playoffs and the play-in tournament range. With the team unlikely to reach postseason play, the option for Middleton to join a playoff contender becomes increasingly attractive at this stage of his career. This scenario leaves open the possibility that Middleton or his representatives may approach Dallas about a buyout to facilitate a move to a team with postseason aspirations.
Khris Middleton’s Career and Impact
Since entering the league, Middleton has played for the Detroit Pistons, Milwaukee Bucks, and Washington Wizards before arriving in Dallas. A Texas A&M alumnus and three-time All-Star, he has consistently averaged around 16 points, with solid contributions in rebounds and assists. Middleton’s most significant career achievement came in 2021 when he played a key role in Milwaukee’s NBA championship victory over the Phoenix Suns, underlining his value as a proven playoff performer.
