Bucks Trade Khris Middleton to Wizards for Kyle Kuzma in Surprising Move
In a shocking turn of events, the Milwaukee Bucks have reportedly traded longtime forward Khris Middleton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Kyle Kuzma. This move, coming just before the trade deadline, marks a significant shift for the Bucks as they look to retool their roster for another championship run. Along with Middleton, Milwaukee is also sending rookie guard AJ Johnson and a 2028 first-round pick swap to Washington. In return, the Bucks receive Kuzma, young forward Patrick Baldwin Jr., and a 2025 second-round pick.
For Bucks fans, this is a bittersweet moment. Middleton has been an essential part of Milwaukee’s success for over a decade, playing a crucial role in their 2021 championship alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. His clutch shooting and leadership made him a fan favorite, and his bond with Giannis was a major pillar of the team’s identity. However, injuries in recent seasons have slowed him down, and Milwaukee’s front office saw this as an opportunity to add a younger, more durable piece in Kuzma.
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Kuzma, now 29, has had an up-and-down season with Washington, averaging 15.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists while shooting 42% from the field. Though he hasn’t matched his previous scoring numbers, the Bucks are betting on his ability to provide size, versatility, and scoring depth alongside Giannis and Damian Lillard. Baldwin Jr., a former first-round pick, also brings potential as a sharpshooting forward.
Giannis himself reacted emotionally to the trade, expressing how much Middleton meant to him beyond basketball. "I’ve been through everything with Khris," he said. "Winning, losing, tough moments… it’s not just business, it’s family." While acknowledging the harsh realities of the NBA, he admitted that seeing his longtime teammate leave is tough.
For the Wizards, this trade signals another rebuild attempt. Middleton, 33, is still a high-level player when healthy, and his championship experience could provide leadership for a struggling Washington squad. But at 8-41 this season, the Wizards are clearly planning for the future, adding another pick swap while giving Kuzma a fresh start elsewhere.
With this move, Milwaukee also gets under the second apron of the salary cap, giving them more flexibility for potential future trades. It’s clear they’re in win-now mode, hoping Kuzma can provide an extra spark as they fight for a deep playoff run.
It remains to be seen how this trade will play out for both teams, but one thing is certain—Middleton's impact on Milwaukee won’t be forgotten anytime soon. Fans will always remember his clutch performances, his quiet leadership, and most importantly, the championship banner he helped bring to the city.
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