The Dallas Mavericks acquired Khris Middleton in a complex trade involving the Washington Wizards and centered around Anthony Davis moving to the Eastern Conference. This three-team, nine-player deal also brought several first-round draft picks to Dallas, which initially appeared to be the primary focus over Middleton himself. Now, as Middleton considers his path for the remainder of the 2025-26 season, he seems inclined to commit to staying with the Mavericks, a decision that could benefit both him and the team.
At 34 years old, Middleton has battled a series of injuries over the past four seasons that have hindered his prime years. Despite this, his credentials remain impressive: he is a three-time NBA All-Star and an NBA champion. However, his recent physical setbacks have affected his availability and the level of his performance.
According to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, the Mavericks have given Middleton the option to pursue a buyout, but have also indicated they want to retain a player with his skill set beyond this season.
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. Middleton can still join a playoff-bound team is he 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.
Middleton’s performance in these early games with Dallas suggests he is making the right move, as continued success could lead to a contract extension with the Mavericks.
The Team’s Struggle with Shooting and Middleton’s Role Moving Forward
The Mavericks’ need for reliable shooters has become unavoidable this season. Although injuries have played a role in their difficulties, the team ranks near the bottom of the league in three-point shooting percentage and three-pointers made per game for the 2025-26 season. Kyrie Irving’s health issues have also limited Dallas’ offensive options.
Given that no single player can turn the season around on their own, it seems probable that Middleton will be part of a broader roster reconfiguration this summer. His contract is set to expire at $33,296,296, a figure unlikely to be matched or exceeded in the next campaign.
What the Mavericks can provide Middleton is an opportunity for continuity and to help develop young talents like Cooper Flagg. Flagg has emerged as a strong candidate for Rookie of the Year but currently relies on shooting support, which Middleton’s skill set could complement well. Flagg has shown raw talent but is still progressing on efficiency, especially from distance.
Middleton’s Performance and Potential Contract Implications
Middleton’s career three-point shooting percentage stands at 38.5 percent, and he remains effective as a midrange scorer who can attack zone defenses and create scoring opportunities. Though he may no longer be at his All-Star peak, his value lies in his shooting ability, versatility, and NBA experience.
Since joining Dallas, Middleton has begun to recapture some of his former scoring form, including an 18-point game against the Minnesota Timberwolves and a 25-point effort versus the Indiana Pacers. This resurgence enhances his appeal as the Mavericks consider their roster for the 2026-27 season.
Middleton’s championship experience and respected veteran presence could help mentor Dallas’s younger players. His shooting efficiency is crucial for spacing the floor, a factor that supports the team’s promising talent like Cooper Flagg.
With Dallas entrusting Middleton to decide his future and clarifying his potential role next season, the swingman’s choice to remain with the Mavericks appears both prudent and promising.
