Bucks general manager Jon Horst called trading franchise cornerstone Khris Middleton "the hardest transaction" he has made as an executive, but did so to "maximize the window" for a championship.

After 12-long seasons in Milwaukee, Khris Middleton was traded out to Washington right before last week's trade deadline came to an end.

One day before the Feb. 6 NBA trade deadline, the Milwaukee Bucks traded away veteran Khris Middleton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Kyle Kuzma. The trade was a four-team deal, and here is how it broke down:

GM Jon Horst explained why his deadline moves, especially parting with a franchise staple, give Milwaukee a better chance to win a title.

Milwaukee Bucks general manager Jon Horst has acknowledged the media ESPN that the transfer of Khris Middleton has been the most difficult part of his career as an executive. "It's still the ultimate responsibility to try to maximize this team as best we can," Horst said.

The Milwaukee Bucks announced the trade to send longtime franchise player Khris Middleton to the Washington Wizards for forward Kyle Kuzma. It was a bittersweet

Milwaukee Bucks general manager Jon Horst said trading Khris Middleton was the toughest decision of his career because of everything the three-time NBA All-Star had done for the franchise. “I’m incredibly close with Khris personally,