The Los Angeles Lakers have been making strategic moves this season, bolstering their roster despite limited salary cap space. By securing key free agents at bargain prices, the Lakers have already transformed their lineup into a formidable force. Their recent acquisitions of DeAndre Ayton and Marcus Smart from the buyout market have proven to be masterstrokes, adding depth and versatility to the team. Now, the Lakers are poised to make another splash by targeting a three-time All-Star legend: Khris Middleton.
According to a report by Evan Sidery on Thursday, Middleton has emerged as a prime candidate in the NBA’s buyout market. Currently with the Washington Wizards, Middleton is in the final year of a $33.3 million contract. However, his extensive injury history has made teams hesitant to offer significant trade assets for him, positioning him as a likely buyout candidate later this season. Sidery noted, “Multiple contending teams are monitoring Khris Middleton’s future with the Wizards. With an expiring $33.3 million deal, coupled with a lengthy injury history, teams aren’t willing to pay a substantial trade price. Middleton is a strong candidate for a buyout at some point.”
If Middleton becomes available, the Lakers are expected to be at the forefront of the chase. At 33 years old, Middleton remains a highly effective player when healthy, averaging 15.1 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game just one season ago. These numbers highlight his ability to contribute as a versatile wing, capable of scoring, facilitating, and rebounding at a high level. For a Lakers team that has relied heavily on a 40-year-old veteran this season, Middleton’s relative youth and skill set could provide a significant boost.
The Lakers’ front office has demonstrated a knack for capitalizing on buyout opportunities, and Middleton would represent their most ambitious acquisition yet. While his injury history is a concern, the potential reward outweighs the risk for a team looking to solidify its status as a Western Conference contender. A healthy Middleton, paired with LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and the newly acquired Ayton and Smart, could elevate the Lakers to the elite tier of championship hopefuls.
Middleton’s fit with the Lakers is undeniable. His ability to space the floor, create his own shot, and make plays for others would complement the team’s star-studded core. Moreover, his playoff experience as a key contributor to the Milwaukee Bucks’ 2021 championship run makes him an ideal addition for a team with postseason aspirations. If the Lakers can secure Middleton at a reduced cost via the buyout market, it would be a coup for a roster already brimming with talent.
As the season progresses, the Lakers must keep a close eye on Middleton’s situation in Washington. Should the Wizards opt for a buyout, the Lakers need to act swiftly to secure his services. A player of Middleton’s caliber doesn’t become available often, and his addition could be the final piece in the Lakers’ championship puzzle. With a blockbuster signing like this, the Lakers are poised to make waves and reassert themselves as a dominant force in the NBA’s Western Conference.