Small forward Khris Middleton is expected to sign a new contract with the Milwaukee Bucks this summer, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports.
Middleton can become an unrestricted free agent this offseason if he declines his 2023-24 player option, which he is widely expected to do. The Houston Rockets are interested in the Charleston native, but it appears they won’t have a chance to get him.
“While Bucks guard Khris Middleton has been mentioned by league personnel as a possible target for Houston in free agency, Middleton’s inclusion during meetings with Milwaukee’s final candidates to replace former head coach Mike Budenholzer strongly signaled a mutual interest in keeping the All-Star guard next to Giannis Antetokounmpo,” Fischer wrote.
“And there is a growing sense among league executives that Middleton will return to the Bucks on a long-term agreement.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Khris Middleton & Milwaukee Bucks Updates
The Bucks hired Adrian Griffin as their new head coach after firing Mike Budenholzer. Middleton and two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo met with Griffin during the interview process.
Middleton, 31, averaged 15.1 points, 4.2 rebounds and 4.9 assists this season while shooting 43.6% from the field, 31.5% from beyond the arc and 90.2% from the free-throw line. He only appeared in 33 games due to injuries, but the veteran is expected to be 100% healthy next season.
The Bucks lost to Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat in the first round of the 2023 playoffs in five games. Middleton’s player option for next season is worth $40.4 million.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Khris Middleton & Milwaukee Bucks Updates
A three-time All-Star, Middleton has career averages of 17.0 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.8 assists with the Detroit Pistons and Bucks. The swingman helped Milwaukee win the 2021 championship over the Phoenix Suns in six games.
Antetokounmpo loves playing with Middleton, so it makes sense for the Bucks to keep Giannis happy by re-signing his pal.
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