Milwaukee Bucks Trade Khris Middleton to Wizards for Kyle Kuzma
The Milwaukee Bucks have made headlines by trading three-time All-Star Khris Middleton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for forward Kyle Kuzma. This transaction includes several key components, with Middleton and rookie guard AJ Johnson joining Washington, while the Bucks receive Kuzma along with forward Patrick Baldwin Jr. and second-round draft compensation. This move, confirmed by multiple sources including ESPN and CBS Sports, comes just ahead of the 2025 NBA trade deadline.
Khris Middleton, who has been with the Bucks since 2013, played a pivotal role in the franchise's success, contributing to their 2021 NBA Championship victory. However, his recent performance has been hampered by injuries, resulting in an average of just 12.6 points per game this season, marking his lowest output since the 2013-14 season. The Bucks seemingly decided that his inconsistent health could be a liability as they chase postseason success.
In contrast, Kyle Kuzma, now entering his fourth season with the Wizards after a championship run with the Los Angeles Lakers, has averaged 15.2 points and 5.9 rebounds this season. However, he has struggled with efficiency, shooting 28.1% from beyond the arc. With this trade, the Bucks are looking to enhance their forward position as they prepare for the remainder of the season.
- Trade Details:
- Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, and a pick swap to Washington.
- Kyle Kuzma, Patrick Baldwin Jr., and second-round draft compensation to Milwaukee.
- Khris Middleton's Stats: 12.6 points per game in the current season.
- Kyle Kuzma's Stats: 15.2 points per game this season.
This trade marks a significant shift in the roster dynamics for both teams, signaling the Bucks' commitment to building around their core as they seek to contend for another title.