The Milwaukee Bucks have been exploring ways to strengthen their roster to complement Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.
With the Washington Wizards possessing several veterans available for trade ahead of Thursday’s deadline, the two teams have become potential trade partners.
Discussions between the Bucks and Wizards have centered around a deal that would send Khris Middleton and draft assets to Washington in exchange for Kyle Kuzma.
The trade would involve the Wizards absorbing the salary difference between Middleton and Kuzma, while the Bucks would gain more financial flexibility by replacing Middleton with Kuzma under the second apron rules.
Middleton, who has two years remaining on his contract, currently earns $31.7 million this season. He also has a player option worth $34 million for the following season, which he is highly expected to exercise.
Kuzma, on the other hand, has three years left on his contract, earning $23.5 million this season. His contract is structured to decline over the next two seasons, with salaries of $21.5 million and $19.4 million in the final two years, respectively.
This trade would provide the Bucks with a player who could offer scoring and versatility while freeing up some salary cap space.
Bucks, Wizards Have Talked Khris Middleton, Kyle Kuzma Swap https://t.co/OnyUlxbpL1
— RealGM (@RealGM) February 4, 2025
