Bucks Trade Khris Middleton to Wizards for Kyle Kuzma in Blockbuster Deal

MILWAUKEE, Wis. — The Milwaukee Bucks have made a significant move ahead of the NBA trade deadline, sending veteran forward Khris Middleton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Kyle Kuzma. The deal, finalized on Feb. 6, 2025, also includes additional players and draft picks as both teams aim to reshape their rosters.

According to multiple reports, the Bucks will receive Kuzma, forward Patrick Baldwin Jr., and a 2025 second-round pick, while the Wizards acquire Middleton, rookie guard AJ Johnson, and a 2028 first-round pick swap. The Bucks also sent guard Delon Wright and cash considerations to the New York Knicks for center Jericho Sims, completing the multi-team transaction.

The trade marks the end of an era for Middleton, who spent 12 of his 13 NBA seasons with the Bucks. A three-time All-Star and key contributor to Milwaukee’s 2021 championship run, Middleton has battled injuries in recent years, limiting his impact. This season, he averaged 12.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.4 assists in 23 games, shooting a career-best 51.2% from the field.

“It’s definitely a plus having Khris back,” Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo said earlier this season when Middleton returned from injury. “He takes us to the next level with his IQ, decision-making, shot ability, and defense.”

Middleton leaves Milwaukee as the franchise’s third all-time leading scorer (12,586 points) and ranks second in games played (735) and minutes played (23,039). His departure provides the Bucks with financial flexibility, moving them below the NBA’s second apron and opening up potential trade opportunities.

Kuzma, 29, joins the Bucks after a challenging season with the Wizards, averaging 15.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists while shooting 42% from the field. Despite his recent struggles, Kuzma brings youth and athleticism to Milwaukee’s frontcourt, complementing Antetokounmpo. The Wizards, meanwhile, continue their rebuild, focusing on developing young talent like Johnson, the 23rd overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.

“This trade is a vote of no-confidence in Middleton,” one analyst noted, highlighting the Bucks’ urgency to upgrade their roster. However, Middleton’s playoff experience and chemistry with Antetokounmpo leave some questioning whether Kuzma can fill the void.

For the Wizards, the deal sheds Kuzma’s long-term contract and provides an opportunity to evaluate young players. Middleton’s veteran presence could also serve as a valuable asset, either on the court or in future trades.

As the NBA trade deadline approaches, both teams will continue to assess their options. The Bucks, now positioned below the second apron, may pursue additional moves to bolster their championship aspirations, while the Wizards focus on their long-term rebuild.