Khris Middleton, D’Angelo Russell in middle of six-team NBA trade

Six-Team Sign-and-Trade Lands Khris Middleton with the Wizards

A complex six-team swap was orchestrated to secure a sign-and-trade deal that brought Khris Middleton to the Washington Wizards on a three-year, $17.6 million contract. The intricate maneuvering involved the Pistons, Grizzlies, Clippers, Bucks, Mavericks, and Wizards, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania.

In the multi-faceted deal, Middleton, previously with the Mavericks, was sent to the Wizards in exchange for former Nets star D’Angelo Russell, a 2029 second-round pick, a 2032 second-round swap, and a 2033 second-rounder to the Grizzlies. Additionally, the Mavericks included a 2033 second-round pick to Washington.

Further details of the trade saw the Pistons trading Caris LeVert and two second-rounders to Milwaukee for Taurean Prince and Gary Harris, creating a trade exception and cap savings for the Pistons. Pre-existing trades were also included in the deal, with the Pistons sending Marcus Sasser to the Mavs, Isaiah Stewart to the Grizzlies, and a protected 2028 second-rounder to the Clippers.

As part of the agreement, the Clippers sent John Collins to the Pistons and cash considerations to the Bucks, while the Grizzlies traded Santi Aldama and the draft rights to Tarik Biberovic to the Mavericks and two draft picks to the Pistons.

The convoluted deal ultimately resulted in Middleton’s return to Washington, where he had previously played parts of the last two seasons. The 34-year-old forward had been traded to the Wizards at the 2025 deadline from the Bucks.

During the 2025-26 season, Middleton averaged 10.2 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, showcasing his value on the court for the Wizards.