The buyout market just got its first plot twist. When everyone expected a Mile High reunion, Khris Middleton had other plans. He has shut the door on Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets. They were gearing up to add the 34-year-old veteran at Sunday’s buyout deadline, hoping his championship pedigree would bolster their title push. But looks like the star forward has decided exactly where he wants to be.

Veteran insider Marc Stein reported that Khris Middleton intends to finish the season with the Dallas Mavericks. Earlier this week, he told Stein he planned to remain patient, carefully evaluating all options before deciding, and to wait until closer to Sunday’s buyout deadline to preserve his eligibility to join a playoff contender if needed.

His measured approach reflects a desire to maintain control over his next move. While the Denver Nuggets and other playoff teams expressed interest in Middleton as a potential free agent, his current decision keeps those doors closed – for now. However, the Nuggets may revisit their pursuit once he becomes an unrestricted free agent following the 2025-26 season.

The Mavericks have made it clear they are willing to facilitate a buyout if Khris Middleton seeks an exit. He arrived in Dallas as part of the Washington Wizards’ blockbuster package for Anthony Davis at the NBA trade deadline.

Since then, Middleton has played 7 games in a Mavs uniform, averaging 13.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.9 assists, demonstrating solid production despite limited playing time. However, rather than pursuing a second NBA championship with a contender, Middleton appears content to remain in Dallas.

He now seems committed to supporting the team’s long-term vision and mentoring reigning No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg. This commitment comes while Middleton plays on a substantial $33.2 million contract.

Notably, Middleton has embraced a supporting role alongside Cooper Flagg, recognizing that the rookie represents the Mavericks’ future.

The organization is clearly committed to building around him, and Middleton’s willingness to contribute to that vision underscores the team’s strategic direction.

Khris Middleton’s mentorship role for Cooper Flagg

The 34-year-old reunited with Jason Kidd in Dallas after playing under him at the Milwaukee Bucks from 2014 to 18. Although his All-Star prime has passed, the connection remains strong.

Moreover, Kidd has spoken with Middleton about embracing a mentorship role, guiding Mavericks standout rookie Cooper Flagg as the franchise shapes its future.

“I’ve been talking to him a lot about how he can help Coop(er),” Kidd told Christian Clark of The Athletic. “He feels like he can’t help Coop. Cooper has already passed him. He’s got a good sense of humor. Just looking at his knowledge and his understanding of the game, it’s been great working with Khris.”

Now, on Saturday, the Mavericks waived 29-year-old veteran guard Tyus Jones to sign two-way guard Ryan Nembhard.

With this move, Dallas now holds both flexibility and a lottery pick this summer, allowing his deal to provide optionality in Nembhard’s long-term future with the Mavericks and strengthening his place moving forward. In simple terms, by adding Nembhard, Dallas is securing Cooper Flagg’s future.

So, Khris Middleton is staying, turning down Denver’s title chase to invest in something bigger. The veteran star won’t join hands with Nikola Jokic.

Instead, he embraces mentorship, helping Cooper Flagg to become the franchise’s cornerstone. So while contenders wait, the Mavericks quietly build their next era.