The Milwaukee Bucks have agreed to trade Khris Middleton, who has been selected as an All-Star three times, to the Washington Wizards. In exchange, Milwaukee will receive Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma, according to multiple reports.
The deal, finalized just before the NBA trade deadline, also involves additional players and draft picks as both teams look to retool their rosters for the remainder of the season.
Why It Matters
Middleton, a key part of Milwaukee’s 2021 NBA championship team, has struggled with injuries in recent years. The Bucks, who currently sit fifth in the Eastern Conference, have been searching for a way to bolster their supporting cast around Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Kuzma, 29, brings fresh versatility to Milwaukee with an average of 17.2 points per game in his career. The forward played a key role in the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2020 championship run before joining the Wizards the following year.
What Are Khris Middleton’s Latest Stats?
Middleton has struggled with injuries in recent years and was averaging just 12.6 points per game this season on 51.2 percent shooting, according to ESPN. In addition to his scoring, he contributed 3.7 rebounds and 4.4 assists per game across 23 appearances.
He has also maintained a free throw percentage of 88.9 percent and has a three-point shooting percentage of 40.7 percent. Players who achieve this level are regarded as highly efficient long-range shooters.
Middleton has been limited in minutes this season, averaging only 23.2 minutes per game as the Bucks have managed his workload following multiple injuries.
What Are Kyle Kuzma’s Latest Stats?
Kuzma is averaging 15.2 points per game, 5.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists this season. Last season, he averaged 22.2 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, showcasing his ability as a reliable scorer and rebounder for Washington.
According to ESPN, he is also shooting 42 percent from the field and 28.1 percent from three-point range. Additionally, he has a free throw percentage of 60.2 percent and is playing an average of 27.7 minutes per game, reflecting his key role in the Wizards’ rotation. Despite some shooting inconsistencies, Kuzma remains an effective offensive contributor with his versatility and rebounding ability.
How Old Is Khris Middleton?
Middleton is currently 33 years old. Having spent 12 seasons with the Bucks, he has been a vital part of Milwaukee’s roster, helping them secure an NBA championship in 2021.
What To Know
The trade sees the Bucks sending Middleton, rookie AJ Johnson and a pick swap to Washington, while the Wizards send Kuzma, Patrick Baldwin Jr. and a second-round draft pick to Milwaukee.
Middleton had been with the Bucks for 12 seasons, forming a strong duo with Antetokounmpo. However, due to injuries, he played just 33 games in 2022-23 and has appeared in only 23 games this season.
What People Are Saying
Middleton’s departure marks the end of an era in Milwaukee.
American sports commentator Skip Bayless posted to X (formerly Twitter): “Sad to see what has happened to Khris Middleton at only 33 … 7 yrs younger than LeBron. So many injuries/surgeries (ankles, knees, wrist). HE WAS ONCE AS CLUTCH A CLOSER AS THERE WAS IN THE NBA. CRUCIAL TO BUCKS ’21 CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM. Hope he’s not washed in Wash.”
Sportswriter Zach Lowe posted to X: “I will say, old 3rd option Kuz was a pretty rugged rebounder, solid cutter, fairly willing ball-mover. Wiz Life enabled a different Kuzma, but the prior version could fit well on the Bucks — provided Kuz makes enough 3s. Career-high is only 36.6%, has not shot >34% since ’21.”
An X user by the name of Nathan Marzion posted: “The most underappreciated player in Milwaukee Bucks history. Top three greatest Buck ever. The Robin to Giannis’ Batman. Thank you for everything @Khris22m. No Buck will ever wear 22 again. Khris Middleton is Good. Forever.”
NBA reporter Jake Fischer posted on X: “I’m told a key element of the trade talks that brought Kyle Kuzma to Milwaukee in exchange for championship mainstay Khris Middleton: a large vote of support for Kuzma from one Giannis Antetokounmpo.”
What Happens Next
For Milwaukee, the focus shifts to integrating Kuzma into their lineup as they push for a deep playoff run. With Middleton gone, Kuzma will be expected to provide consistent scoring and defensive versatility.
Washington, on the other hand, is in rebuilding mode. While Middleton’s injury history raises concerns, the Wizards may view him as a veteran presence who can mentor younger players. Additionally, Johnson and the draft compensation provide future assets for the team’s long-term strategy.
As the NBA trade deadline dust settles, all eyes will be on how Kuzma fits with the Bucks and whether Middleton can regain his All-Star form in Washington.
The post Khris Middleton vs. Kyle Kuzma: Latest Stats Compared in Wake of NBA Trade appeared first on Newsweek.
