Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Mavericks Make Khris Middleton Decision Before Buyout Deadline

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Debayan Biswas | Last updated Feb 24, 2026 9:57 AM ET

The Dallas Mavericks walked off the floor Sunday in Indianapolis with a 134-130 win over the Pacers, and Khris Middleton shined when it mattered most. The 34-year-old forward scored 25 points on 11-of-15 shooting, adding seven rebounds and seven assists in 30 minutes. For a team fighting to stay in the Western Conference race, it was a timely reminder of what a proven veteran can offer.

It was also a performance that arrived a day before a key decision. With the March 1 buyout deadline looming, Dallas has made its stance clear. According to league reporter Marc Stein, the Mavericks have left it up to Middleton to decide whether he wants to remain with the team or pursue a buyout that could allow him to join a playoff-bound contender.

The Mavericks are leaving it up to Khris Middleton to decide whether he wants to stay with the team or negotiate a buyout, per @TheSteinLine

The buyout deadline is March 1st

(https://t.co/qVsDiE7wWu) pic.twitter.com/zbN5ABEoFh
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) February 24, 2026

"The Mavs are leaving it up to Khris Middleton to decide whether he wants to stay with the team or negotiate a buyout. The Mavs have conveyed to him that he could have a place on next season’s team if he stays," Stein reported.

Dallas’ message was straightforward. It indicates that the Mavericks value his shooting and experience not just for this season, but also for the future.

Middleton, a three-time All-Star and 2021 NBA champion with the Milwaukee Bucks, has been at a crossroads. After beginning the season with the Washington Wizards following trade rumors in Milwaukee, he was moved again and landed in Dallas. Early reports suggested he might not align with the Mavericks’ long-term roster plans. Yet his recent play may be shifting that narrative.

Dallas Mavericks forward Khris Middleton (20) dribbles the ball while Indiana Pacers guard Quenton Jackson (29) defends.Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

In his four games with Dallas, Middleton is averaging 16 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3 assists in 25.5 minutes per game, shooting 48.9% from the field. His 25-point game against Indiana was a season high and the seven assists represented his high since Nov. 25 during his time in Washington.

There is still flexibility. If waived by Sunday, Middleton could sign with a playoff-bound team. But staying in Dallas may offer stability and a defined role. The Mavericks have emphasized they will need shooting next season, an area where Middleton has built his career.

His professionalism has also left an impression. Former teammate Will Riley praised Middleton’s discipline, saying, “Routine and the way you carry yourself. Khris has a very good routine, comes very early. He’s done the same routine throughout his whole career.”

For a Mavericks team balancing veteran leadership with roster changes, that consistency could matter. Dallas is signaling trust. Now the choice rests with Middleton.

With the buyout deadline approaching, his decision could shape not only the Mavericks’ postseason outlook but also the final chapter of a decorated career that still appears to have something left.

The Mavericks visit the Brooklyn Nets at 7:30 p.m. ET Tuesday.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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