Washington Wizards Forward Khris Middleton Picks Up $33.3 Million Option

Washington Wizards sharpshooter Khris Middleton has picked up his $33.3 million player option for the 2025-26 NBA season, according to sources close to the team. The three-time All-Star and NBA champion saw his 12-year tenure in Milwaukee come to an end last season, as Middleton was traded to Washington shortly before the trade deadline. The 33-year-old played in just 14 games for the Wizards last season and 37 games total.

Middleton’s Future in Washington

The move comes as no surprise, according to a report by ESPN’s Shams Charania, as the market for Middleton remained relatively shallow heading into free agency. The move also serves as a positive boost for the Wizards in their ongoing rebuild. The 13-year NBA veteran provides both a great locker room presence and desperately needed outside shooting. Some experts say that Middleton’s time in Washington could be fairly short next season, as contending teams will more than likely try to acquire his sharpshooting services.

Middleton’s Lengthy Injury History

While the shot creation and efficient three-point shooting that Middleton can provide could be beneficial, contending teams may be wary of trying to acquire him due to an extensive injury history the past four seasons. Middleton missed the first 21 games of last season with the Bucks due to offseason surgery on both ankles.

The Wizards forward also went under the knife in July of 2022 to repair a torn ligament in his wrist and had knee surgery in the summer of 2023 as well. That extensive injury history could temper interest from multiple contending teams next season.

Middleton’s Overall Play

Despite injuries hampering much of Middleton’s playing time the last few seasons, the former Bucks All-Star has still been able to produce quality numbers. Middleton averaged 12 points per game on over 36% shooting from behind the arc last season. While those numbers pale in comparison to Middleton’s best career years, they still show that Middleton still has some gas left in the tank despite the injury history.

Final Thoughts

With Middleton exercising his option, it is assumed by those in Middleton’s camp that his time in Washington is limited. Expect to see Middleton’s name circulate in NBA trade deadline news next season, as contending teams will certainly have the sharpshooter on their radar, due to both his adjustable skill set and expiring contract.