Khris Middleton Ready to Compete for Wizards Against Former Team

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Khris Middleton, recently traded from the Milwaukee Bucks to the Washington Wizards, emphasized his desire to actively contribute to his new team rather than merely serve as a mentor. Speaking after practice on Wednesday evening, Middleton expressed his readiness to compete and help the Wizards win, stating, “I’m here to be a basketball player. I’m here to win games, here to help win games however I can.”

The 33-year-old forward, who was part of a significant trade on February 5, reassured fans that his role with the Wizards goes beyond providing guidance to younger players. “I want Wizards fans to know that I’m not here just to be a mentor. I’m here to be a basketball player and compete out there and help win games,” he explained.

The trade, which involved forward Kyle Kuzma, was central to the Wizards’ rebuilding strategy. Middleton, a seasoned player with a championship background, joins a team currently sitting with a record of 9-45, focusing on the development of younger talent like Alex Sarr, Bilal Coulibaly, Bub Carrington, Kyshawn George, and AJ Johnson.

Middleton’s debut with the Wizards is set against the Bucks on Friday night, which adds an intriguing layer to his first game with his new team. His experience could provide a much-needed boost to a Wizards squad that has shown signs of improvement, managing a 3-4 record in February despite the absence of key contributors due to injury.

The former NBA All-Star has averaged 12.6 points, 4.4 assists, and 3.7 rebounds across 23 games this season, even as injuries have hindered his playtime. Middleton acknowledges the importance of balancing the development of the Wizards’ young players while fostering team morale.

“I know what it takes to win in this league, and I want to share that with our younger guys,” Middleton stated. His focus will be on making a positive impact, both on and off the court.

Meanwhile, Bucks’ superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo humorously remarked about the upcoming matchup, saying, “I’m not shaking his hand, I’m not talking to him, I’m not even looking at him. Every time I see him, I’m going to guard him full court.” The lighthearted banter highlights the competitive spirit that Middleton’s former teammates expect to see in the on-court reunion.

As the Wizards prepare for the second half of the season, Middleton’s presence may prove crucial in steering the team amidst its ongoing transition. Whether or not he makes an immediate impact against the Bucks, his intentions to contribute should resonate well with Wizards fans looking forward to the future.