4. Khris Middleton
All indications point to the Milwaukee Bucks bringing back each of their free agents this offseason. With the rebirth of Brook Lopez though, it might prove to be a challenge to bring back Khris Middleton, Malcolm Brogdon, and Lopez. While there isn’t a major chance of Middleton leaving, there is still a small one.
If Middleton did decide to leave, however, he would fill a gap at small forward that the Pacers have. Not only that, but it would give Indiana the option to play Victor Oladipo at point guard and Middleton at shooting guard. Players with flexibility at multiple positions are crucial in an NBA where “small” and “big” lineups are switched back and forth constantly.
Middleton would provide the Pacers with even more scoring, and another 3-point shooter. He also brings to the table the ability to guard multiple positions and play off the ball. A backcourt with Oladipo and Middleton would make for a tough assignment for most backcourts in the league.
Middleton has spent his career with the Bucks, being understandably overshadowed, by Giannis Antetokounmpo. In Indiana, he would have the chance to grow with the young stars already in place. It could be a chance to see another young team join together and become a serious threat in the East, and potentially the whole league.