Khris Middleton is making a strong case for a longer stay with the Dallas Mavericks, but his continued good form is creating a selection dilemma for the team.
Middleton put in another impressive performance with 16 points off the bench against the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday. While it didn’t result in a win, his play since being traded to Dallas is certainly giving the front office something to think about.
Middleton’s Value to the Mavericks
Middleton is averaging 12.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game through 13 games as a Maverick. Dallas may have the issue of having too many wings if they re-sign him this summer.
Wing depth is important to winning. The Mavericks have already made it clear that they’re interested in re-signing Middleton, and him not asking for a buyout just made it clear that this idea at least intrigues him.
He chose to finish the year with Dallas despite multiple contenders being interested in him, and this could be a sign of good things to come after this season.
A majority of Mavericks fans would like the team to bring back Khris Middleton, as he gives the team instant offense, shooting, versatility, and secondary playmaking on a team that lacks all of these things.
Dallas has been one of the worst 3-point shooting teams all year, and Middleton’s confidence from beyond the arc has been a breath of fresh air for fans.
He’s never afraid to let it fly from long range, and his ability to create his own shot when needed has shown promise as well. Jason Kidd has even elected to run the offense through him at times, and he has stepped up in big moments.
Roster Overcrowding Issues
His play has definitely warranted the Mavericks at least exploring the possibility of giving him a new contract in free agency, but what does this mean for those around him?
Dallas has Klay Thompson, P.J. Washington, Cooper Flagg, Max Christie, Caleb Martin, and Naji Marshall all under contract next season, and there won’t be enough minutes to go around for some of these players if they bring back Middleton.
- Players like Flagg and Marshall aren’t always utilised as true wings.
- Marshall handles the ball often and plays some point guard.
- Flagg has been thrust into an on-ball role as well.
Both of these things may change next season.
Finding the Right Balance
Kyrie Irving is on track to return at the beginning of the season, and Dallas is going to need complementary wings around him. He will immediately become the Mavericks’ primary creator once again, along with Flagg, and these wings’ ability to defend, knock down open shots, and space the floor will all be important.
Middleton provides some of these things, and he’d give the Mavs a three-level scorer off the bench who can play multiple positions. He would also provide veteran leadership and experience, but Dallas can’t bring him back while also not making any trades to improve their backcourt.
Every team in the league would like to be in this position, given how important wing depth is to winning, and they may be forced to move some parts around beginning this offseason.
The Mavericks’ point guard play has been one of their biggest weaknesses all.