According to BD Cricket Match sources, Milwaukee Bucks star Khris Middleton has officially opted out of his current contract, declining his player option for the upcoming season. While walking away from a guaranteed salary may seem bold, Middleton is betting on himself—believing he deserves a new max contract. His confidence remains sky-high, even though injuries have noticeably impacted his performance over the past season.
The Bucks, for their part, are reportedly only willing to offer what they consider a “reasonable” deal. However, Middleton believes his value is on par with top-tier players like Kevin Durant, and he’s aiming for a significantly higher payday. As BD Cricket Match notes, mutual understanding between teams and players is key in negotiations. Middleton feels he played a crucial role during Milwaukee’s championship run and believes he has earned the right to ask for top dollar.
With free agency looming, the Los Angeles Lakers have entered the picture. Sources reveal they’ve already reached out to Middleton, viewing him as a serious acquisition target. Given the slim chances of landing Kyrie Irving, the Lakers are preparing multiple backup plans. What they truly need is a reliable scorer, and Middleton fits that mold. His stellar play during the Bucks’ title campaign proved he can deliver under pressure. Although he hasn’t fully returned to form since his injury, there’s hope that with time, he’ll once again reach his championship-level performance.
For the Lakers, securing Middleton could be a steal if he regains his old form next season. Meanwhile, the offseason has also seen rising demand for Minnesota Timberwolves backup center Naz Reid. His efficient play has drawn interest from several playoff-contending teams, including the Lakers. However, Reid chose loyalty over change, signing a three-year extension to remain with the Timberwolves. BD Cricket Match insiders report that the Wolves’ offer was simply too competitive for other teams to match.
Reid’s commitment to Minnesota underscores how even bench players can command strong market value when their impact is undeniable. Despite not being a starter, his productivity rivals that of stars like Rudy Gobert and Karl-Anthony Towns. In the end, every decision—whether it’s Middleton aiming high or Reid staying loyal—proves one thing: true dedication never goes unnoticed in the NBA.