The Washington Wizards are entering a rebuilding phase, while Khris Middleton, a 33-year-old with a substantial contract, presents a seemingly unconventional fit. Despite this, the team isn’t planning an immediate separation from the veteran forward.
Washington values Middleton as a mentor for its youthful roster. His professionalism and leadership are expected to influence one of the NBA’s youngest teams positively.
Following the trades of Jonas Valančiūnas and Kyle Kuzma – previously key leaders – the Wizards are leaning on Middleton’s experience to guide a rotation that now includes a second-year player and three rookies.
Middleton is set to earn $31.6 million this season and holds a $34 million player option for the following year, which he’s likely to exercise.
The Wizards may consider trading him during the upcoming offseason or closer to the 2026 trade deadline when his expiring contract might be more attractive to other teams than flipping him ahead of this year’s deadline.
Wizards Expected To Keep Khris Middleton As Role Model For Young Roster https://t.co/OxEFSSY88Q
— RealGM (@RealGM) February 6, 2025
