The NBA's midseason marketplace might deliver the homecoming Milwaukee fans never saw coming (but probably shouldn't want). Because as things currently stand, Washington's trade strategy could put Khris Middleton back in a Bucks uniform by February, creating the kind of emotional decision that championship teams must resist.
Per Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers of The Athletic, Washington's early season goal is crystal clear: showcase Middleton and CJ McCollum in hopes of flipping their expiring contracts for some value before the deadline. And once he exercised his option (which he did by June 29 deadline), Middleton can be sent to any team, including the Bucks, at any time during the 2025–26 season, whether in free agency or via trade.