Mon Jun 23 19:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article based on the provided text, along with a summary of the key points:

**Summary:**

Khris Middleton, now a member of the Washington Wizards, has exercised his $33.3 million player option for the 2025-26 season. This move was widely anticipated due to the significant guaranteed money. While Middleton has shown flashes of his former All-Star self, injuries have hampered his performance in recent years. The Wizards, currently rebuilding, may look to trade Middleton either this summer or during the upcoming season to leverage his expiring contract for salary-matching purposes. A buyout remains a possibility if he doesn’t perform well or if a trade doesn’t materialize. Despite Middleton’s salary, the Wizards are projected to stay below the luxury tax threshold.

**News Article:**

**Middleton Picks Up Player Option, Future with Wizards Uncertain**

**WASHINGTON, D.C.** – Wizards forward Khris Middleton has exercised his player option for the 2025-26 season, guaranteeing him a $33,345,679 payday, sources confirmed to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The decision, while expected, throws his long-term future with the rebuilding Washington Wizards into question.

Middleton, a three-time All-Star (2019-2022) and key member of the Milwaukee Bucks’ 2021 championship team, was traded to Washington at the 2025 trade deadline. However, a string of injuries to his wrist, knee, and ankle has limited his playing time and consistency over the past three seasons. While he’s demonstrated his ability to still perform at a high level when healthy, his availability remains a concern.

“Middleton showed during the 2023 and 2024 playoffs that he can still be dangerous when he’s at full health”

The Wizards, currently focused on a youth movement, may see Middleton’s expiring contract as a valuable asset. The team could explore trade options this summer or during the season, using his salary to facilitate a deal for younger players or future assets. If Middleton’s performance falters or no suitable trade partner emerges, a buyout later in the season could be considered.

Despite Middleton’s hefty salary, the Wizards are projected to remain below the NBA’s luxury tax threshold for the upcoming season.

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