Mavericks just gained an unexpected edge to pull off offseason steal

Despite undeniable interest from multiple playoff teams, Khris Middleton did not ask for a buyout from the Dallas Mavericks over the weekend. This means that Middleton will remain in Dallas for the remainder of the season, putting the Mavericks in an ideal position to bring back the 6-foot-7 swingman in free agency.

He was one of the three expiring contracts Dallas acquired as part of the Anthony Davis trade, along with Marvin Bagley III and Tyus Jones (who has since been waived), but he has turned into much more than that. Middleton looks like he'd be an incredible fit off the bench next season as Dallas kicks off the Cooper Flagg era, and he still has a lot more left in the tank.

The final 22 games could determine Khris Middleton's future in Dallas

He's averaging 12.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game while shooting 44.7 percent from the field, and his offensive versatility would guarantee him a future role if Dallas signs him over the summer. Middleton is set to hit unrestricted free agency after this season, but the Mavericks have an edge over the rest of the league in this department.

The final 22 games of the season can act as a dress rehearsal for both sides, and this is a much better alternative than him heading elsewhere.

Mavericks fans feared that Middleton would ask for a buyout for the chance to play for a contender for the rest of the season due to the team's positioning in the standings, but he opted to stay in Dallas. He has been one of the few bright spots over the last month or so, and the Mavericks should definitely consider re-signing him in free agency.

Why Khris Middleton's buyout decision matters more than fans realize

Him asking for a buyout and signing with a different team would've likely been a tell-tale sign that he wouldn't be returning to Dallas, and now he has the rest of the season to evaluate if he sees himself as a long-term fit on the Mavericks.

Dallas has already let him know they'll need more shooting in the offseason, and Middleton would help here, along with their lack of shot creation off the bench. The Mavericks can play through him if needed as well, and his ability to provide instant offense is impressive at this stage in his career.

Dallas should be in a great spot to return to the playoffs next season if everyone can stay healthy, and Middleton could play a major role in that. His three-level scoring, experience, and veteran leadership would all be welcomed by the Mavericks if they're able to keep him this summer, and him not pushing for a buyout is the first step in Dallas re-signing him during the offseason.