TITLE: Jason Kidd says Khris Middleton weighing buyout ahead of playoff‐eligibility deadline
SLUG: jason-kidd-says-khris-middleton-weighing-buyout-ahead-of-deadline
CONTENT:
Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd said veteran forward Khris Middleton is deciding whether to seek a contract buyout before Sunday’s league deadline that would allow him to join another team for the postseason.
“That’s up to Khris,” Kidd told reporters before Friday night’s loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. “We support whatever decision he makes if he’s going to stay or if he’s gonna get bought out. But I think he’s gotta make that decision here pretty quick.”
Middleton, 34, is in the final year of his contract. Should he secure a buyout, he would become a free agent in time to sign with a playoff contender. League sources believe the Denver Nuggets and San Antonio Spurs are among the clubs monitoring his status.
An Eastern Conference executive told DallasHoopsJournal.com that Middleton could lose his Bird rights by agreeing to a buyout, adding that remaining with Dallas might be more beneficial for his playing time and future contract prospects.
“He’s going to get minutes and touches in Dallas,” the executive said, noting that the Mavericks are allowing the three-time All-Star to “play his game and build some momentum.” The executive also suggested Middleton’s presence aids the development of the Mavericks’ younger players, including rookie forward Cooper Flagg.
The NBA’s buyout deadline falls on Sunday. Players waived or bought out after that date are ineligible to appear in this year’s postseason for a new team.
Source: Hoops Wire
