The Washington Wizards (9-45) have relied on accomplished veterans to lead their young core since last season, and Khris Middleton is one of the newest examples of that. However, the former NBA champion won’t limit himself to the mentorship role.

Two teams that swapped key starters two weeks ago will return to the court on Friday night when the Washington Wizards host the Milwaukee Bucks. The Bucks sent veteran forward Khris Middleton to the Wizards for Kyle Kuzma in a four-team deal on Feb.

Middleton, who had been with the Bucks since the 2013-14 season, was sent to Washington at last week’s trade deadline along with 2024 first-round pick AJ Johnson in a deal that brought Kyle Kuzma to Milwaukee. Both teams also received draft compensation in the trade.