The Milwaukee Bucks are taking significant steps to manage Khris Middleton's health as they move him to the bench. This decision comes on the heels of a challenging period for the accomplished forward, who is recovering from ankle tendinitis and has undergone double ankle surgeries in the off-season. Consequently, Middleton has been absent from more than a few games and was notably missing during the Bucks' recent matchup against the Toronto Raptors due to this lingering tendinitis.
Challenges and Recovery
Khris Middleton's journey has been fraught with physical challenges. Since sustaining an MCL sprain in his left knee during the 2022 playoffs, the 32-year-old has been on a tumultuous recovery path. The list of surgeries he has needed is extensive—addressing issues in his left wrist, right knee, and notably both ankles—all of which have taken a toll on his ability to remain consistently active on the court. Despite these setbacks, Middleton debuted this season against the Boston Celtics in early December, signaling a promising return to play.
Adjusting Roles
Middleton's transition back to the starter's role followed a brief period off the bench, occurring just five games into his return. As a starter, he posted respectable figures, averaging 15.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.9 assists while maintaining a shooting accuracy of 51.2%. These statistics demonstrate his ability to impact the game positively despite the ongoing physical challenges. However, the Bucks' performance with Middleton as a starter, recording a 3-4 win-loss record, has not been up to their aspirations.
Assessment of the dynamics between Middleton and the team's other stars, like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, also raised concerns. The trio posted a minus-5.6 net rating over 96 minutes spent together on the floor, prompting further evaluation of team strategies.
Strategic Decisions
The decision to move Middleton to the bench was communicated by none other than Doc Rivers after a meeting on Sunday. Taurean Prince has since stepped into Middleton's starting spot against the Raptors, as the Bucks strive to configure the most effective starting lineup. The figures indeed paint a pressing picture of adjustments needed, with the primary starting lineup posting a minus-10.6 net rating over 31 minutes—numbers that are likely prompting deeper analysis and further experimentation.
Middleton’s Perspective
Middleton has his expectations clear—and they are ambitious. He openly stated, "Having a successful season out there is playing damn near 82 games. Anything below 70, 75 games, no, I do not consider that a successful season for me." This quote reflects his desire to be a consistent force for the Bucks, not only through his on-court performance but also through sheer availability—a professional's evergreen barometer for success.
Looking Ahead
Despite the bumps along the road, optimism surrounds Middleton's situation. He is projected to make his comeback against the San Antonio Spurs, a matchup which may see the dedicated player fight to regain his form and stamina, putting an end to his absence.
For the Bucks, the decision to bring Middleton off the bench could translate into rotational depth and added firepower that preserves his health for the duration of a grueling NBA season. Navigating the twin challenges of eking out victories while maintaining player health remains a delicate balancing act—for the Bucks and Middleton alike. As the team recalibrates their strategies around Middleton’s well-being, the path to a coherent, consistent, and successful campaign is certainly one worthy of attention.