Mavericks leave Khris Middleton’s buyout decision to the veteran while Nuggets, Spurs monitor
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The Dallas Mavericks have placed the choice of a potential contract buyout squarely in Khris Middleton’s hands, league sources told Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints.
Middleton, 34, landed in Dallas as part of the franchise’s blockbuster deal with the Washington Wizards that also involved Anthony Davis. Despite widespread expectations that the three-time All-Star would negotiate a buyout immediately after the trade, the Mavericks have embraced his experience and have not urged him to seek a release.
Several contenders are keeping tabs on the situation. According to Siegel, the Denver Nuggets and San Antonio Spurs are prepared to pursue the 6-foot-7 wing if he becomes a free agent. Denver, which slipped below the luxury-tax threshold at last week’s trade deadline, has an open roster spot and had previously explored adding Kyle Anderson before Anderson completed his own buyout.
Should Middleton request a buyout, he would be limited to signing a veteran minimum contract for the remainder of the season. Agents around the league reportedly view that scenario cautiously, concerned that accepting the minimum could limit the forward’s leverage when he enters free agency this summer.
The Mavericks’ buyout considerations appear to stop with Middleton. Dallas has no plans to part ways with guard Tyus Jones, whom the organization sees as a key rotational piece behind Kyrie Irving in 2024-25.
For now, the decision rests with Middleton: join a playoff push immediately or protect his negotiating position ahead of July’s free-agency period.
Source: Hoops Wire
