Grade The Trade: Golden State Warriors Replace Klay Thompson With Khris Middleton

Grading the trade that sends former All-Star Khris Middleton to the Golden State Warriors.

Moses Moody, a promising young guard, brings additional upside with his combination of shooting and defensive potential. While he has yet to fully break out in the NBA, Moody showed flashes of his talent during the 2023-24 season, where he averaged 8.1 points per game on 36.0% shooting from beyond the arc. His youth and work ethic make him an intriguing prospect for the Bucks, who could develop him into a key contributor alongside their core. Moody’s ability to space the floor and his growing confidence on defense could help the Bucks maintain their status as one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference while also planning for the future.

This trade also gives the Bucks financial flexibility moving forward. By moving Middleton’s sizable contract, they reduce their long-term salary obligations, which could allow them to pursue other moves in free agency or at the trade deadline. With Giannis still in his prime, the Bucks need to find the right balance between winning now and building for the future, and this trade could help them do just that by bringing in younger players who can contribute immediately while still having room to grow.

What Grade Should This Trade Be?
This is a risky trade for the Warriors but it does net them a star-caliber player while the Bucks move on from a player that might not be the best fit for them anymore. Both teams get some wins but take some risks.

Golden State Warriors: B-

For the Warriors, this trade is a calculated risk. While Khris Middleton is an accomplished player who could fit seamlessly into their system, his recent injury history (only 88 games played in two seasons) and the uncertainty about whether he can return to his All-Star level of play make this trade a gamble. However, the potential payoff could be significant if Middleton regains his form, giving the Warriors a dynamic duo with Curry and adding another legitimate scoring threat. The loss of Andrew Wiggins and Moses Moody, both key contributors with upside, makes this a somewhat risky move, which is why the trade garners a B- grade. The Warriors are betting on Middleton’s ability to stay healthy and deliver when it matters most.

Milwaukee Bucks: B

The Bucks receive a B grade for this trade, as they exchange an aging star with a hefty contract for two younger, more athletic players who can contribute immediately while still having potential for growth. Andrew Wiggins brings a combination of scoring and defense that fits well with the Bucks’ current roster built around Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, while Moses Moody adds shooting and youth to their rotation. This trade also gives the Bucks more flexibility moving forward, both financially and in terms of roster construction. However, the loss of Middleton’s experience and leadership, especially in clutch situations, means this trade isn’t without its risks, keeping the grade at a solid B.