Anthony Davis trade suddenly forces Mavericks into a tough offseason decision

The Dallas Mavericks dealt Anthony Davis in a three-team trade with two goals in mind: obtain draft capital and obtain financial flexibility for the future. Dallas achieved both of its goals, as it received multiple draft picks and three expiring contracts for Davis, including those of Tyus Jones, Marvin Bagley III, and Khris Middleton.

The players listed above are expected to be with Dallas temporarily, as the team has multiple moves it still needs to make, such as converting Ryan Nembhard's two-way to a standard deal. However, Khris Middleton is making a strong case to obtain a long-term contract this summer.

The three-time All-Star has been a solid presence for the Mavericks since he arrived earlier this month, as he has been the team's leading scorer over the past two games. He played a major role in helping the Mavs overcome their 10-game losing streak on Sunday in a win over the Indiana Pacers, and it looks like the team should definitely consider bringing him back.

Khris Middleton deserves a new contract from Dallas this summer

Middleton has been dominating since he arrived in Dallas.

The 6-foot-7 forward excelled in his first game with the team. He scored 13 points off the bench and shot 40 percent, while making half of his 3-point shots. Defensively, he had a solid outing, as he finished with four defensive rebounds. He did a great job fighting for the ball off the glass, giving Dallas the extra body they needed.

He would struggle in his second game, but drastically improved his game in the past two games. Middleton started in his first game as a Maverick against the Minnesota Timberwolves. He scored 18 points, six rebounds, and two steals. His game was well noted, as Dallas needed an extra scorer without Cooper Flagg in the lineup as he recovers from injury.

Middleton's offensive game has been the biggest eye-opener since his arrival. The Mavs' forward has showcased his talents within the perimeter, as he can easily score from mid-range or inside the paint. He has shown he can easily get past defenders with a nasty pull-up jumper, something defenders struggle to defend due to his size.

Yet, one thing that has stood out is his high level of shooting. Middleton has been dominant at the free-throw line, converting 87.5 percent of his attempts. Plus, his 3-point shot has been another strong point, just as it always has.

One prime example is his recent performance against the Pacers. Middleton balled out against the former Eastern Conference champs, as he shot 60 percent from long range. It was a vintage game for Middleton. He scored a season-high 25 points, looking comfortable scoring from all over the court.

His recent performances with Dallas highlight that the veteran still has plenty left in the tank. It's also a sign the Mavs shouldn't take lightly, as Middleton could be a valuable asset on Cooper Flagg's future team.

The Dallas rookie will need all the offensive weapons to help elevate his game, and Middleton is the perfect addition for the job. He can be the perfect asset to a team lacking depth and size.

So, if the Mavericks hope to sign any of the expiring contracts from the Anthony Davis trade, then Middleton would be the perfect person to bring back. He brings all the intangibles the team lacks, plus he is a proven veteran with championship experience.

Mavs fans can only hope that new management makes the right decision and makes him a Maverick for the extended future.