Khris Middleton isn't viewed as a long-term solution for the Washington Wizards in the front court by any means.
Between his age and the injury woes that have constantly lingered with the forward over the last few years, it's clear the Texas A&M product is a shell of his former self.
That's largely the main reason the Milwaukee Bucks opted to move on from the long-time player ahead of the NBA trade deadline in February.
As for Washington, moving on from Kyle Kuzma was equally as important as it was for Milwaukee to get younger at the position.
However, Middleton's start with the Wizards wasn't exactly perfect and mainly due to the same reasons his tenure with the Bucks' soured down the stretch: injuries.
Despite that, Middleton's role in Washington isn't to help the Wizards win games and contend for championships.
Instead, Washington took the chance to land the veteran due to what he offers off the court.
Middleton's career didn't start off with a guarenteed roster spot and an immediate role on a top team.
The former SEC standout was forced to put the work in and grind his way from the G-League into the role he carved out with the Bucks.
Between his work ethic, basketball IQ and never give up attitude, Middleton proved to be a reliable and steady player that not only his teammates could depend on, but the coaching staff and front office, too.
After picking up his $33.2 million player option to remain in Washington this offseason, Middleton is here to stay with the Wizards, at least for a little while longer.
And looking at incoming players such as Cam Whitmore and Will Riley, the veteran forward's presence may be more important than ever.
For a player like Whitmore, who was considered a bit immature during his time in Houston, the veteran leadership of Middleton could be the exact type of mentor that could help the former first-round pick finally take the step that the Wizards are betting on him being able to take.
If that is the case and Middleton's mentorship is the key that finally unlocks the potential of Whitmore and potentially other players already on the roster, his impact will last long after his days in the DMV come to an end.
When it's all said and done, the Wizards and their fanbase could be forced to admit the 34-year-old was one of general manager Will Dawkins' best moves yet.