Khris Middleton has become an irreplaceable member of the Milwaukee Bucks. He’s also facing free agency, which could present a big issue for the team.
Middleton has a $13 million player option for next season that he is expected to turn down in favor of unrestricted free agency. He said Monday that he will focus on what’s best for his family before worrying about fit, which may indicate that he’ll be looking for a big deal when the time comes to negotiate.
Khris Middleton said after the season ends, he usually takes a month off before returning to the court. “But it depends if I get bored sitting at home.” When it comes to his free agency, he said he will weigh what’s best for his family first and fit second.
— Malika Andrews (@malika_andrews) May 27, 2019
Middleton can’t be blamed for approaching things this way. He turns 28 in August and this is his opportunity to get a big payday in the prime of his career. Having made himself into a quality three-point shooter and an outstanding defender, he’s looking to maximize his value, as he should. Of course, he could well decide that staying put is precisely what’s best for his family as well.
The Bucks will have to pay up if they want to keep him. They’ll also have to account for Giannis Antetokounmpo’s slightly murky future while they consider it, making this a huge offseason for Milwaukee.
