Overview
- Middleton told reporter Marc Stein he is still deciding whether to finish the season in Dallas or seek a buyout before the March 1 waiver cutoff for playoff eligibility.
- Head coach Jason Kidd said the Mavericks support whatever decision Middleton makes and urged a prompt call with the deadline approaching.
- League reporting identifies Denver and San Antonio as the most prepared suitors if he becomes available, with the Nuggets targeting wing size and ball-handling.
- Denver created flexibility by moving below the luxury tax and keeping a roster spot open to pursue buyout additions.
- A buyout would cost Middleton his Bird rights, and over‑apron teams like Cleveland, Golden State and New York cannot sign players waived off salaries above the mid-level; he has averaged about 14.5 points in six games with Dallas.