The Denver Nuggets are among the contenders looking for upgrades in the NBA buyout market after a quiet trade deadline. The Nuggets seemingly felt comfortable with their choice to stay put after a busy summer and it’s working well. They are fourth in the Western Conference with a 37-22 record, despite Nikola Jokic missing 16 games.
The Nuggets could do that due to their bench depth. They acquired players such as Jonas Valanciunas, Bruce Brown Jr. and Tim Hardaway Jr in the offseason, who have all been impactful contributors. The Nuggets aren’t done here. According to the latest report from NBA insider Marc Stein, the Nuggets are showing significant interest in former NBA champion Khris Middleton.
“I know Denver would love to get him,” Stein said on Thursday.
Middleton got traded from the Wizards to the Mavericks in the Anthony Davis deal at the deadline. For now, he’s contemplating a buyout. Middleton is in the final year of his $93 million contract. He will have until March 1 to decide his future.
A chance with the Denver Nuggets would be hard to turn down as it’s a legitimate proposition for a second championship for the former All-Star, who won his first alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo in 2021 with the Bucks.
Middleton would be a key contributor in the frontcourt, especially amid Aaron Gordon’s injury woes. Gordon has played only 23 games this season due to a hamstring injury.
Meanwhile, Middleton has averaged 11.0 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.2 assists on 44.4% shooting. In six games with the Mavericks, those numbers are up to 14.5 ppg and 4.8 rpg on 50.0% shooting, including 38.1% from 3-point range and 91.3% from the free throw line.
Khris Middleton’s buyout remains unlikely amid Denver Nuggets’ interest
The Denver Nuggets must keep their options ready as Khris Middleton reportedly remains unlikely to secure a buyout. Middleton has reunited with his former coach, Jason Kidd, in Dallas. He also has the chance to end his career there as a veteran who can mentor the young core the Mavericks are trying to form around Cooper Flagg.
Middleton can also choose to make his decision in the offseason. He’s on an expiring contract and is a free agent. It will allow him to assess his situation and see where he fits depending on this season’s results for other teams.
After a solid start with the Mavericks, Middleton can continue to build on it and land a significantly better deal than a veteran deal in the offseason.
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