Khris Middleton - Denver Nuggets v Milwaukee Bucks
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - Khris Middleton (#22) of the Milwaukee Bucks walks backcourt during a game against the Denver Nuggets at Fiserv Forum on January 25, 2023 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Stacy Revere/Getty Images

Two-time All-Star Khris Middleton has made known his decision this free agency.

Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Middleton declined his $40 million player option to become a free agent. The player's agents, Mike Lindeman and Jeff Schwartz, relayed this to the NBA insider.

Middle and the Bucks are coming off a dismal 2023 playoffs after losing to the Miami Heat in five games as the first seed.

Before that, Middleton dealt with recurring injuries, having played only for 33 games and averaged only 15.1 points, 4.9 assists, and 4.2 rebounds.

He also missed the playoffs of 2022 after being diagnosed with a medial collateral ligament sprain that ended his season.

Where to now for Middleton?

Middleton is not going anywhere. Many believe such a move is the only way for the 32-year-old sharpshooter to sign a longer deal. This is also beneficial for the Bucks, who said they will keep the Bucks' core.

Financially, this is a good development, too, for the Wisconsin-based team. Per Michael Sotto of HoopsHype:

Bucks fans are also aware of the situation.

Previous reports claimed the Bucks would work to keep Giannis Antetokounmpo, Middleton, Jrue Holiday, and Brook Lopez this coming season. These guys were all instrumental in their 2021 NBA Championship victory, their first in 50 years.

Lopez, for his part, wants to stay in Milwaukee despite interest from other teams.