Pistons among teams monitoring potential Khris Middleton buyout

The Pistons are at least kicking the tires on a familiar veteran name.

According to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, Detroit is among a group of playoff-bound teams wondering whether Khris Middleton could eventually pursue a buyout with the Mavericks. Nothing appears imminent, but the curiosity is there.

Middleton was acquired by the Mavericks on February 6 as part of the Anthony Davis trade with the Wizards, and by all accounts has handled the situation exactly as expected. He’s been professional, steady, and low-maintenance in a brief Dallas stint.

Stein reports that the Mavericks have effectively put the decision in Middleton’s hands. If he decides he’d prefer a buyout in order to latch onto a playoff-bound team, Dallas is expected to cooperate and work with him.

That leaves teams like Detroit in wait-and-see mode. The East-leading Pistons are still looking to solidify their roster around a young core and could view Middleton as a short-term stabilizer and locker-room presence if the opportunity presents itself.

Again, there’s no urgency. Middleton hasn’t pushed the issue, and the Mavs aren’t forcing a move. But as the postseason approaches, this is a situation worth monitoring.