The Milwaukee Bucks are trading Khris Middleton, an NBA champion and Olympic gold medalist, to the Washington Wizards, receiving Kyle Kuzma in return, as reported by a source familiar with the agreement. Also in the trade, A.J. Johnson will move from the Bucks to the Wizards, while Patrick Baldwin Jr. will head to the Bucks, along with a future pick swap and some second-round draft picks.

This trade was first reported by ESPN, occurring just before the NBA’s trade deadline. The 33-year-old Middleton, who has faced injury issues, has spent nearly all of his 13 seasons in Milwaukee. This season, he has played only 23 games, making 16 appearances off the bench but achieving a career-high shooting percentage of 51%.

Middleton was pivotal in helping the Bucks claim the NBA championship in 2021 and played a significant role in the United States’ gold medal victory at the Tokyo Olympics. Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo expressed his appreciation for Middleton’s impact: “It’s definitely a plus having Khris back. Man, he takes us to the next level with his IQ, decision-making, shot ability, and defense.”

Kyle Kuzma, now joining the Bucks, has previously played for the Los Angeles Lakers and has averaged an impressive 17.2 points per game throughout his career, with an average of 15.2 this season. The trade provides the Bucks with enhanced financial flexibility, allowing them to explore additional trade options before the deadline.