An unfortunate Injury in the West may have quietly created an opening for the Wizards

As we all know, injuries are part of the game, but it's the absolute last thing any player or fan wants, especially when its a star player.

For the Golden State Warriors, the recent injury news of Jimmy Butler III only adds to the disappointment of what has already been a frustrating start to the season.

Not only are the Warriors' already under exceeding, but the team's plans ahead of the NBA trade deadline in February were already a major question.

Now, with Butler being ruled out for the season with an ACL injury, it only adds more weight to the plate of general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr.

Fortunately for Golden State, the Washington Wizards may have an answer that helps them not only this season, but moving forward.

Wizards could offer GSW Khris Middleton's expiring contract

The Wizards have been searching for a willing trade partner to take on the expiring contract of veteran forward Khris Middleton.

Middleton joined the Wizards ahead of the NBA trade deadline last season in a deal with the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for a deal centered around Kyle Kuzma in efforts to provide a younger supporting cast around Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The former All-Star was once considered one of the most versatile playmakers in the league and his role on the Bucks' championship roster in 2021 was pivotal to the team's success.

Since, his career was derailed by injuries, where he's struggled to return to his peak play.

Despite that, those injury concerns have quietly subsided this season in Washington, with Middleton playing in 29 of the Wizards first 42 games.

Obviously, missing 13 matchups up to this point stands out, but for a team who's actively tanking, there's not much incentive to put a veteran on the floor who's looking to win on a nightly basis, especially if he's dealing with something.

All that to say, while Middleton is far from his prime, he could be a fill-in player that could give the Wizards a versatile wing to add to their lineup in efforts to replace the role that Jimmy Butler once provided for Golden State.

At the same time, Middleton's expiring contract would give the Warriors' some much-needed financial flexibility heading into the offseason with the potential to make one last push to build a contender around Stephen Curry.

Whether a deal would be centered around Jonathan Kuminga, who the Wizards already have shown interest in, or the contract of now-injured Butler is unclear.

Regardless, the Wizards could dangle Middleton in front of the Warriors and see just how desperate the struggling squad is.