The Memphis Grizzlies are the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference, but most view them in a tier below the likes of the Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Oklahoma City Thunder.
To help boost their title odds, the Grizzlies could turn to the buyout market. Despite rumblings of a blockbuster move for either Jimmy Butler or Kevin Durant at the trade deadline, Memphis’ front office went quiet on Feb. 6 and prior.
There are a few potential buyout candidates that could add significant value to their rotation, one of whom is former Milwaukee Bucks star Khris Middleton. Bleacher Report predicts the Grizzlies will swoop in and land the 33-year-old if the Washington Wizards buyout his contract.
“A buyout for Khris Middleton may not be likely, given his $34 million player option in 2025-26 and recent reporting from Sports Illustrated‘s Chris Mannix,” B/R’s Andy Bailey wrote. “But turning down that money also wouldn’t be shocking. The Washington Wizards are one of the worst teams of all time, and Middleton has spent much of his career as a title contender (or at least a near lock to make the playoffs).”
The Grizzlies are a surefire playoff team, but even their Round 1 matchup will be challenging. The Los Angeles Clippers, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Dallas Mavericks are possible matchups for Memphis early on.
Middleton would provide the rotation with a veteran full of playoff experience, as he played a pivotal role in the Bucks’ 2021 title run. He averaged a disappointing 12.6 points on 51.2% shooting in 23 appearances with the Bucks this season.
“Preemptively declining that option and betting on his ability to secure a new contract over the rest of this season makes some sense. And the Memphis Grizzlies are a good spot where Middleton could do just that,” Bailey concluded.
Pairing Middleton with superstar Ja Morant and All-Star Jaren Jackson Jr. would put him in a comfortable position while still allowing him a chance to hoist the Larry O’Brien Trophy once again.
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