Bucks GM Jon Horst Describes Khris Middleton Trade as His Hardest Transaction Yet
In a significant move as part of this year's NBA trade deadline, Milwaukee Bucks general manager Jon Horst labeled the decision to trade Khris Middleton to the Washington Wizards as "the hardest transaction" he has undertaken in his executive career. The Bucks traded away Middleton, along with rookie guard AJ Johnson, in exchange for Kyle Kuzma, Patrick Baldwin Jr., and a second-round pick. This trade marks a particularly notable moment as Middleton had been a crucial part of the Bucks organization for over a decade, contributing to their 2021 championship run.
Describing the rationale behind the trade, Horst emphasized his commitment to maximizing the team's championship window. With Middleton averaging just 12.6 points this season—his lowest since joining the Bucks, and following an offseason where he underwent surgeries on both ankles—Horst pointed out the necessity for the franchise to adapt its roster in a competitive Eastern Conference. "It's still the awesome responsibility to try to take this franchise and maximize the window that we have now as best we can," Horst stated during a press briefing.
The details of the trade include:
- Players Traded: Khris Middleton and AJ Johnson
- Players Acquired: Kyle Kuzma, Patrick Baldwin Jr., and a second-round pick
- New Additions: The Bucks also acquired Jericho Sims from the New York Knicks.
Horst noted that while Middleton’s contributions to the team were invaluable and his departure marks the end of a significant era in Bucks history, the trade aims to enhance team depth and overall composition. He reinforced that the hope is that the new acquisitions provide the Bucks with fresh dynamics that aid in their quest for another championship. With the recent changes, Milwaukee also managed to move below the second apron of the collective bargaining agreement, allowing for more flexibility in future roster adjustments.
As the Bucks look toward the rest of the season, the integration of Kyle Kuzma is anticipated to aid in supporting star players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. Overall, this trade signals a shift in strategy for Milwaukee as they continue their pursuit of excellence in a highly competitive league.