KEY POINTS
- Middleton, on an expiring $33.3 million contract, joins Dallas and will provide veteran depth.
- The trade involves five players and five draft picks, reshaping both franchises’ rosters.
- Davis and Russell arrive in Washington, both recovering from injuries, with immediate roster implications.
WASHINGTON – The Washington Wizards traded Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley, two first round picks and three second round picks to the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday in exchange for Anthony Davis, Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell and Dante Exum, according to ESPN reporter Shams Charania.
The transaction represents one of the largest NBA midseason trades, significantly altering team composition and free agency positioning.
Middleton, previously traded from Milwaukee to Washington, now moves to Dallas, where his experience could aid playoff ambitions.
Middleton averaged 10.3 points, 3.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists in 34 games with the Wizards this season. The Mavericks acquire multiple draft assets, bolstering long term flexibility.
“It’s a strategic move by Dallas to combine veteran leadership with future assets,” said John Hollinger, NBA analyst. Peter Vecsey, former NBA columnist, added, “Washington gains talent depth but faces risk with injury prone players.”
| Player | PPG | RPG | APG | Status | Team |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Khris Middleton | 10.3 | 3.9 | 3.3 | Expiring deal | Dallas |
| Anthony Davis | 22.1 | 8.4 | 3.1 | Finger injury | Washington |
| D’Angelo Russell | 18.4 | 4.2 | 5.6 | Illness | Washington |
Middleton said in a statement, “Excited for this next chapter in Dallas.” Mavericks GM Nico Harrison called it “a transformative trade for the franchise.”
Both teams face roster adjustments and health monitoring. Dallas gains veteran stability and draft flexibility, while Washington evaluates the integration of Davis and Russell for playoff contention.
The trade underscores NBA teams’ increasing reliance on draft assets and experienced players to balance immediate competitiveness with long term strategy.
NOTE! This article was generated with the support of AI and compiled by professionals from multiple reliable sources, including official statements, press releases, and verified media coverage. For more information, please see our T&C.
