The Washington Wizards are a long way from being true playoff contenders.

Their future might be bright, but it’s a long-term future and not one that is coming very soon.

Because of that, some players may not stick around until the team realizes its full potential.

According to Jake Weinbach, Khris Middleton is expected to stick with the Wizards at the start of the 2025-26 season, but he could be “one of the most prominent buyout candidates next year.”

“Middleton, who will turn 34 in August on a $33.2M expiring contract, is valued in D.C. as a mentor to the young core, but may prefer a more competitive situation down the road with Washington likely to prioritize the long-term future,” Weinbach wrote.

Khris Middleton is expected to remain with the Wizards to begin the 2025-26 season, but the veteran forward will be one of the more prominent buyout candidates next year.

Middleton, who will turn 34 in August on a $33.2M expiring contract, is valued in D.C. as a mentor to the…

— Jake Weinbach (@JWeinbachNBA) July 28, 2025

Middleton came to the Wizards last season and has so far played 14 games with them, averaging 10.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists on 41.3 percent from the field.

Middleton is 34 years old and has suffered more injuries over the last few years.

He is bringing important wisdom and expertise to the Wizards, but his physical output isn’t what it used to be.

There is no doubt that Middleton is getting closer to the end of his career, so he has to ask himself how he wants to spend the rest of his days in the NBA.

Does he wish to be with a team that isn’t going to get far in the playoffs, like the Wizards?

Or will he move onto another squad that will give him a chance at another championship before he hangs up his jersey for good?

How much do the Wizards value Middleton, and will they try to hang onto him beyond next season?

He is definitely a buyout candidate to keep a very close eye on.

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