Khris Middleton reportedly staying with the Dallas Mavericks continues to headline NBA news. The news comes after the veteran forward was linked to multiple teams, including the Denver Nuggets.
Middleton was a midseason acquisition by the Mavericks as part of the blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards.
Mavericks HC Jason Kidd Sheds Light on Khris Middleton Finishing Out the Season in Dallas
Speaking to reporters in the aftermath of the Mavericks’ 100-87 loss to the OKC Thunder, head coach Jason Kidd spoke of Middleton lacing up for the team for the remainder of the season.
Per Mavericks reporter Noah Weber, “Looking at Khris as a vet, he’s already had some impact with us, on and off the floor. For him to be able to stay, it was great,” Kidd said.
“We’ll try not to play him 40 minutes a night, but I think his ability as a vet to score and to lead is something that’s needed in that locker room, so we’re happy he’s staying.”
Middleton’s future was one of the talking points ahead of the waiver deadline on March 1. Players could sign with contending teams during the window and be eligible to play for the side in the postseason. With the All-Star forward not inking any deals, he will now play out the ongoing regular season for the Western Conference unit.
Dallas’ veteran forward had until Sunday to request a buyout before the playoff eligibility waiver deadline, but he elected to stick around. https://t.co/uoHrEezxkC
— Dallas Morning News (@dallasnews) March 2, 2026
On the game front, the 34-year-old propped up just four points, shooting 2-for-10 from the field, along with 2 rebounds and 3 assists in 25 minutes. He averages 12.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.9 assists in his eight games so far with the Mavericks.
Leading up to the waiver deadline, the former Milwaukee Bucks star was seen as an odd fit for the Mavericks’ timeline. With the franchise making its plans clear to build around rookie sensation Cooper Flagg, Middleton was not seen as a player to remain long-term with the team.
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The 2021 NBA champion has shown glimpses of his vintage self after suiting up for his new side. Additionally, he is a known locker-room presence, a quality that will benefit the Mavericks going forward, irrespective of his contributions on the floor.
At the time of writing, the Mavericks are not one of the teams making the playoffs. But with Middleton in the fold, they can aim to finish their regular season on a high note. Only time will tell where his next landing spot is once the summer begins. Up next, they play the Charlotte Hornets on the road on Wednesday (March 4).
