The Milwaukee Bucks are in the process of hiring Adrian Griffin as the 17th head coach in franchise history. The decision was not made lightly. Prior to narrowing down their list of candidates down to Griffin, Kenny Atkinson, and Nick Nurse, the Bucks hired numerous candidates including Marc Jackson, Charles Lee, and Scott Brooks. Once the final three candidates were set, each of them met privately with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Following these meetings, The Athletic reports that the Bucks held a meeting to discuss who to hire, a meeting that included Giannis and Khris Middleton.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton Met with the Milwaukee Bucks’ Brass about Hiring Adrian Griffin
According to The Athletic:
“After that, each candidate met with a Bucks ownership contingent on Wednesday. On Thursday night, Horst held a dinner to discuss the team’s decision regarding the head coach opening that included ownership. Both Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton were invited to attend, a league source said.”
Giannis and Middleton are the longest-tenured players on the Bucks. Giannis was drafted by the team in 2013 and Middleton was acquired via trade the same year. He previously played for the Detroit Pistons in 2012-13.
What Does Khris Middleton’s Involvement Mean for His Future with the Milwaukee Bucks?
Middleton has a player option for next season worth $40 million. There had been rumblings that he would decline the option and test free agency. There were also suggestions that Milwaukee would sign and trade him this offseason.
However, Middleton’s involvement in the decision to hire Griffin as the head coach of the Bucks should be seen as an indicator that he is still committed to playing in Milwaukee for the long-run, and that the Bucks want him in Milwaukee as well.
Based on his presence at the meeting, there are three possibilities regarding his future with the Bucks:
- He plays out his player option and re-signs next offseason
- He picks up his player option and signs an extension
- He declines his player option and signs an extension
If Middleton signs an extension with Milwaukee, it can be be for up to four years and $220 million, or $55 million per year. Note, that is not necessarily what the Bucks will offer him. Rather, it is what they can offer him.
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Frequently Asked Question’s
Is Khris Middleton a defender?
Yes, Khris Middleton is known for his both defensive and offensive capabilities. He has established himself as a well-rounded player and is known for his contributions on both ends of the court. Middleton's defensive prowess is often highlighted by his ability to guard multiple positions and get steals. His defensive efforts have been significant in the success of the Milwaukee Bucks, particularly during their championship run in 2021.
How many kids does Khris Middleton have?
Khris Middleton has two children; one son and one daughter. The professional basketball player and his wife Samantha Dutton were blessed with a daughter Audrielle Middleton on April 23’ 2019. The specific details about his children and the second child are not available as the couple tends to keep their personal lives private.