Khris Middleton became one of several significant bright spots for the Milwaukee Bucks this season. He proved to be a double-digit scorer, capable two-way player, game-winning shot maker, and one of a few key young cogs for head coach Jason Kidd.
Middleton has expressed his desire to remain with the Bucks, as he is entering restricted free agency this offseason. There will certainly be offers made for Middleton after putting the league on notice, but the Bucks have the option to match any offer. Gary Woelfel of the Milwaukee Journal reports that the Bucks may not have to even worry about that:
Free agency begins July 1 and, according to a person close to the scene, Khris Middleton won’t be a free agent for long and will reach a quick agreement to remain with the Bucks.
Middleton’s salary was under $1 million this season. His new deal will be worth more than a few million per year.
The Bucks made their presence felt and took a visible development step as they battled the Chicago Bulls in the first round of the playoffs. Middleton, along with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Michael Carter-Williams comprised a lengthy, feisty, competitive core for Milwaukee. The Bucks made such strides even without their no. 2 overall draft pick Jabari Parker.
With Middleton expected to be locked in for the future, next season presents an especially promising opportunity for the Bucks to further build on what they started this season with a versatile mixture of young talent.
