Apr 27, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Khris Middleton (22) goes to the basket against Chicago Bulls forward Pau Gasol (16) in game five of the first round of the 2015 NBA Playoffs at United Center. The Bucks won 94-88. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
Khris Middleton has developed into a nice player for the Milwuakee Bucks over the past couple of seasons. The 39th overall draft pick by the Detroit Pistons in the 2012 NBA draft has set himself up for a big payday, as he becomes a restricted free agent this off-season.
For the 2014-2015 season, Middleton averaged 13.4 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.5 steals per game in 30 minutes per game. He shot 46% from the field and 40% from the three-point arc. Adding Middleton would help the Heat find the shooting they often missed last season.
In each of his first three seasons, Middleton has shown gradual improvement. He could be a breakout candidate in the right spot, earning a bigger role.
Could that role be in Miami?
Even if the Heat don’t lose Wade, Middleton is a name I’d like the Heat to pursue. He has become one of my favorite players to watch over the past couple of seasons.
Middleton would actually fit a potential running Miami Heat offense better than Wade for the upcoming season, playing alongside Goran Dragic and Chris Bosh.
Still, he’d be a costly acquisition for the Heat, only fitting into their budget if multiple players opt out or are traded.