Following their early NBA playoff exit, change might be in the air for the Milwaukee Bucks. Some already have their eyes on one of their key players.
For the past six years, Khris Middleton has been a foundational piece for the Bucks. He manage to find a lane in the league as a second-round pick and grew into a multi-time All-Star. Middleton has thrived alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and helped deliver the organization its first championship.
At the end of the day, the NBA is a business. And with business comes difficult decisions. Middleton will be faced with one this summer as he has a chance to walk away from his longtime home. The 31-year-old has a player option for next season.
According to Action Network, Middleton might leave the Bucks in free agency while being in search of one last payday at the end of his prime.
“A few uncomfortable truths lurked under this Bucks season. NBA sources have long said to keep an eye on the Bucks and their future, particularly with Middleton, who will soon be 32 years old. He has a player option this summer and is seeking that last, great, large contract.”
Fresh off an injury-ridden season, Middleton might be better off opting in and testing the free-agent waters in 2024. He played in just 33 games this year and posted his lowest PPG average since 2017.
Whether it’s this season or next, the Bucks are likely to do everything they can to keep Middleton in Milwaukee. It’s clear that he is an important piece, and when fully healthy, he makes this team a legitimate contender as Giannis’ running mate.
While Milwaukee might want to keep Middleton, multiple teams are sure to inquire about his services. Some teams might even be willing to overpay him because they see him as a valuable player who can elevate the ceiling of any squad he is on.
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