The focus in Milwaukee has been on Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard ever since the Bucks shocked the NBA by trading for the seven-time All-NBA point guard just days before the 2023-24 season commenced. As they embark on their second season as teammates, discussions about their on-court chemistry and the potential they can unlock together continue to capture attention.
However, Bucks coach Doc Rivers consistently emphasizes that there is another key player who should also be included in these conversations.
“We don’t talk about Dame, Giannis and Khris enough,” Rivers stated to The Athletic after a training camp practice in Irvine, California. “We should include all three in our discussions, not just focus on two.”
During the Bucks’ journey to their second franchise title in 2021, they were anchored by their trio of Antetokounmpo, Middleton, and Jrue Holiday.
In a thrilling second-round battle against the Brooklyn Nets, Antetokounmpo, Middleton, and Holiday all stepped up, making crucial shots in critical moments. When Antetokounmpo suffered a left knee hyperextension in the Eastern Conference finals, Middleton assumed a greater role as playmaker, leading sections of both Games 5 and 6. In Game 4 of the NBA Finals, Middleton delivered a standout performance, scoring 40 points to propel the Bucks past the Phoenix Suns.
Since that championship run, however, Middleton has grappled with a series of unfortunate injuries.
In the 2022 playoffs’ first round against the Chicago Bulls, Middleton sustained a left knee MCL sprain, sidelining him for the entire series against the Boston Celtics. After that postseason, he underwent surgery on his left wrist, which he injured toward the season’s end. His recovery restricted him from playing in the first 20 games of the 2022-23 campaign. A subsequent right knee injury also caused him to miss another 17 games. Although Middleton returned well before the playoffs, Antetokounmpo’s absence for most of that playoff series led to the Bucks being eliminated by the Miami Heat.
Following the disappointing loss to the Heat, Middleton had right knee surgery, which mandated a minutes restriction for the first two months of last season. In February 2024, he incurred a left ankle sprain against the Suns, causing him to miss 16 games before returning in March. In the playoffs, Middleton averaged 24.7 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists against the Indiana Pacers, even while playing through a right ankle sprain during the series. The Bucks succumbed in six games, missing the crucial contributions of Antetokounmpo and a hindered Lillard while Middleton battled injuries.
Now, three years after their championship victory, the Bucks are eager to recapture the magic of that season and fully utilize a new big three consisting of Antetokounmpo, Lillard, and Middleton. To follow this winning formula, all three players must contribute significantly, which includes Middleton returning to peak form after successfully undergoing surgery on both ankles this past offseason.
On Saturday, Rivers informed reporters he does not anticipate Middleton will play in the team’s third preseason game on Monday against the Chicago Bulls but is hopeful for Middleton’s participation in the preseason finale on Thursday against the Dallas Mavericks. Regardless of whether he plays or not, Rivers expressed confidence that Middleton will be ready for the regular season opener against the Philadelphia 76ers on October 23.
“I do,” Rivers affirmed when asked about Middleton’s readiness for the Sixers. “But I was hoping for an exhibition game, so I never say 100 percent about any of this because all our players need to feel right.”
Currently, the Bucks have kept Middleton from engaging in five-on-five practices, yet he remains optimistic about his performance this upcoming season.
“Having a successful season out there means playing nearly 82 games,” Middleton reflected during the Bucks’ training camp visit to UC-Irvine. “I understand there might be a few games where you can’t go due to something like a thigh contusion or similar issues.”
“Like a severe ankle sprain, certain injuries might cause you to miss one or two games. However, not playing more than 60 games is unacceptable to me. I don’t consider anything below 70 or 75 games a successful season.”
The 33-year-old forward participated in only 55 games last season, although he was on track to play in 68 games until he suffered a left ankle sprain due to a reckless closeout by Kevin Durant. After managing his minutes extensively at the beginning of the season, Middleton averaged 16.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 5.8 assists in 30.1 minutes per game, achieving a shooting percentage of 49.9 percent from the field and 40 percent from beyond the arc. He played in 27 of the Bucks’ 31 games from December 1 to February 6, when he sustained his ankle injury.
Middleton acknowledges the stark reality of the games he has missed over the past two-plus seasons, along with the injuries affecting his play. However, he strongly dismisses the idea that he should be viewed as a greater injury risk than any other athlete and is frustrated by those who label him “injury-prone.”
“I try to avoid reading that stuff, but the ‘injury-prone’ label is irritating because I feel that, for the most part, it’s just — I don’t want to call them freak accidents — but simply accidents,” Middleton explained. “When people say ‘injury-prone,’ it implies how you care for your body.”
“I take great pride in my body care from day one since I’ve been here. So, no, I don’t believe I’m injury-prone. I’ve just experienced unfortunate incidents on the basketball court, which can be categorized as bad timing in a wrong place.”
While Middleton is optimistic about having a healthy and successful season, he recognizes that questions regarding his playing time and usage will arise. Experiencing injuries in each of the last two regular seasons has been a source of frustration for him, but he has learned valuable lessons regarding his body and the importance of collaborating with the team’s training staff and management to stay healthy and on the court.
“It’s all about focusing on what I can control,” Middleton stated. “One aspect is recognizing my limits and understanding how a hard day will affect me the following day. I’ve pushed myself back from injuries before, which taught me about the consequences. It’s important to know the right amount of continuous play I can handle to avoid the ‘in-and-out’ situation, which indicates I’m not ready.”
“For me, it’s about consistently playing when I know I’m prepared to log significant minutes. It should be a gradual increase rather than a rollercoaster of ups and downs. I believe that instability disrupts team chemistry and can impact how my teammates view my reliability. That’s the approach I take concerning ramp-ups, aligning with the training staff’s guidance on my playing schedule.”
If Middleton achieves his objectives, he will give observers a reason to engage in discussions about the Bucks’ big three and their on-court dynamics, as Rivers has emphasized throughout the preseason.
Last season, the trio was highly effective, outscoring opponents by 17.5 points per 100 possessions when playing together. Nevertheless, they only shared the floor for 758 minutes, as reported by NBA.com. Due to this limited time, particularly under Rivers in the latter part of the season, Rivers expressed that there were too many occasions when the Bucks struggled with offensive spacing.
Middleton believes these issues stemmed from the players not being sufficiently familiar with each other’s play styles and not spending enough time together.
“It’s more about understanding which areas of the court need to be occupied and realizing that multiple players can fill those roles, not just one specific individual,” Middleton explained. “Last year, we encountered issues with players attempting to occupy the same space because that’s what they were accustomed to.”
“That can happen; it’s a natural human tendency.”
This year, we need to cultivate the habit of understanding that these five positions must be occupied, ensuring that everything flows naturally around us, allowing our players the freedom to perform their roles effectively.
While other competing teams in the Eastern Conference, like the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers, are still on their rise, celebrating recent successes in pursuit of their first championships since 1973 and 1983, respectively, five members of the Bucks roster have already reached the pinnacle of the sport, having won NBA championship rings.
Instead of pursuing new aspirations and dreaming of future possibilities, Middleton and the Bucks aim to sustain their excellence and replicate their past achievements. This endeavor is quite different from striving to win a title for the first time, yet Middleton acknowledges that their journey still brings joy.
“It’s fun still, but it’s definitely a challenge,” Middleton stated. “Each year presents a new challenge. After securing a title, you celebrate during the summer, but come the next year, you essentially start anew. As Doc put it, you’re not truly defending your championship since you begin from scratch.”
“You don’t get to flaunt that (championship) belt. You keep the trophy, but another one is up for grabs. You must strive to claim that new one. I believe our collective mindset after winning is that we are starting over. You have to return to square one and determine how to reach that finish line once more.”
However, the reality within the league is that the Bucks’ journey lacks the thrill seen with the emerging teams who made significant offseason changes. Their path isn’t as captivating as that of the defending champion Boston Celtics, who are seeking to establish a dynasty with consecutive titles.
As the season commences, the Bucks are not considered favorites for the NBA title. In the recent NBA GM survey, they were ranked as the fifth-most-likely team from the East to claim the NBA Finals. While this may inspire some, Middleton remains unconcerned.
“I truly couldn’t care less about it,” Middleton expressed when questioned about other teams being perceived as superior to the Bucks. “It doesn’t resonate with me. I don’t need external motivation from any sources. It comes from within, from the desire to be the best player or the top team. External expectations or noise don’t faze me. The only expectation that truly matters is within our locker room.”
With this perspective, Middleton intends to concentrate on his personal performance and contribute as much as he can to position the Bucks for a title run. Ultimately, his goal for the season is straightforward.
“I aim to have one of the best seasons I can,” Middleton said. “A consistent year. I want to participate in as many games as possible.”
“For me, it’s simple. My goal is to be the best version of myself. If that means scoring 10 points while we win every game, that would be an outstanding year for me. Whatever it takes to secure victories is what matters. I learned early in my career that when we win, everything else falls into place.”
(Photo of Khris Middleton: Nathaniel S. Butler / NBAE via Getty Images)
Reviving the Big Three: Khris Middleton’s Comeback and the Bucks’ Title Aspirations
Khris Middleton: The Cornerstone of the Bucks’ Success
Khris Middleton has long been a vital cog in the Milwaukee Bucks’ machinery. His ability to score, defend, and create plays has earned him recognition as one of the premier players in the NBA. Following a challenging season marred by injuries, Middleton’s return to the court is pivotal for the Bucks’ championship aspirations. Let’s explore the significance of Middleton’s comeback and its implications for the Bucks.
Understanding the Importance of Middleton’s Return
Middleton’s return is more than just the reintroduction of a talented player; it symbolizes hope and resilience for the Bucks. His performance is crucial in several key areas:
- Scoring Ability: Middleton is a proficient scorer, often stepping up in clutch moments.
- Playmaking Skills: His versatility allows him to initiate plays, relieving pressure off star player Giannis Antetokounmpo.
- Defensive Prowess: Middleton’s defensive skills are vital in guarding elite players from opposing teams.
- Leadership: As an experienced player, his presence on and off the court boosts team morale.
The Big Three: Building a Championship Core
The Milwaukee Bucks have long been defined by their “Big Three”: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton, and Jrue Holiday. This trio is instrumental in the Bucks’ quest for another championship. Each player brings unique attributes that create a formidable unit.
Player Profiles of the Big Three
| Player | Position | 2022-2023 Stats |
|---|---|---|
| Giannis Antetokounmpo | Forward | 29.9 PPG, 11.6 RPG, 5.8 APG |
| Khris Middleton | Forward | 15.4 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 3.0 APG (limited due to injury) |
| Jrue Holiday | Guard | 17.7 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 6.8 APG |
Middleton’s Comeback Journey
Middleton’s journey back to the hardwood has been filled with challenges. After suffering a serious knee injury, fans were anxious about his recovery and return. However, Middleton has shown resilience, demonstrating his work ethic and determination during rehabilitation.
Steps in the Recovery Process
- Injury Assessment: Proper diagnosis and understanding of the injury.
- Rehabilitation: Engaging in physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.
- Training: Gradual reintroduction to on-court activities, focusing on conditioning and skill work.
- Game Readiness: Participating in scrimmages to gauge performance under pressure.
Impact on Team Dynamics
The Bucks are not just a collection of talented players; their chemistry and teamwork are crucial for success. Middleton’s return impacts team dynamics in significant ways:
Boosting Team Morale
Middleton’s comeback injects energy and optimism into the locker room. His familiarity with the system and rapport with teammates fosters a sense of unity as they push towards their championship goals.
Enhancing Offensive Strategies
With Middleton back in the lineup, the Bucks can diversify their offensive schemes:
- Picking and Rolling: Middleton’s ability to shoot off screens provides more options for Giannis and Holiday.
- Isolation Plays: His proficiency in one-on-one situations can exploit mismatches.
- Ball Movement: Middleton’s playmaking skills enhance the overall flow of the game.
Challenges Ahead for the Bucks
While Middleton’s return is a significant boost, the Bucks face several challenges as they pursue another NBA title.
Adapting to Game Speed
One of the critical challenges for Middleton will be adjusting back to the pace and intensity of NBA games. It can take time for players to regain their rhythm following injuries.
Defensive Adjustments
As Middleton returns, the Bucks must also recalibrate their defensive strategies. His absence may have led to shifts in defensive assignments that will need re-evaluation to maintain effective defensive structures.
Benefits of Middleton’s Return for the Bucks
The benefits of Middleton’s comeback extend beyond the court, positively affecting the entire organization.
- Increased Fan Engagement: Middleton’s return is likely to energize fan support, increasing attendance and merchandise sales.
- Financial Implications: A successful playoff run can significantly boost revenue through ticket sales, sponsorships, and media rights.
- Long-Term Success: Reinforcing the core trio with Middleton enhances the team’s chances of sustained success over multiple seasons.
Practical Tips for Bucks Fans
For Bucks fans eager to support their team as Middleton makes his comeback, here are some practical tips:
- Stay Informed: Follow news updates about Middleton’s performance and recovery progress through trusted sports news outlets.
- Engage with the Team: Attend games, participate in fan events, and support the team through social media.
- Understand the Game: Knowledge of strategies and player roles enhances the viewing experience, making each game more engaging.
Case Studies: Successful Comebacks in NBA History
Throughout NBA history, several players have made remarkable comebacks from injuries, inspiring fans and teammates alike. Here are a few notable examples:
| Player | Injury Type | Comeback Season |
|---|---|---|
| Derrick Rose | ACL Tear | 2017-2018 |
| Paul George | Compound Fracture | 2014-2015 |
| Stephen Curry | Ankle Issues | 2012-2013 |
These athletes have demonstrated that with perseverance and dedication, it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve success on the NBA stage.
First-Hand Experience: A Player’s Perspective
In the words of Khris Middleton himself, “The game is everything. It’s where I find my joy, and I can’t wait to get back to competing with my teammates.” This sentiment resonates not only with fans but with aspiring athletes everywhere, highlighting the passion that drives professional players to overcome challenges and strive for greatness.
Looking Ahead: Buck’s Title Aspirations
As Khris Middleton rejoins the lineup, the Milwaukee Bucks are positioned to make a significant impact in the NBA. With their sights set firmly on another championship, the team must harness the synergy of the Big Three and capitalize on their strengths. The road ahead may be challenging, but with Middleton back in action, the Bucks’ title aspirations are more alive than ever.
