Bucks Brace for Opening Challenge Without Middleton
The Milwaukee Bucks are set to kick off their season against the Philadelphia 76ers, but they'll do so without a key player in their lineup. Khris Middleton, the team’s three-time All-Star forward, will not be suiting up due to ongoing ankle issues that have plagued him in the past year.
The absence of Middleton, a pivotal figure in Milwaukee’s quest for Eastern Conference supremacy, comes as a significant blow. The durable forward has been integral to the Bucks' success with his scoring, playmaking ability, and veteran presence. Unfortunately, his availability has been hampered by a series of injuries, primarily involving his ankles.
Injury-Plagued Seasons
Middleton’s current ankle troubles are the culmination of a challenging period that began last season. In February, a left ankle injury sidelined him for over a month, and then during Milwaukee’s first-round playoff matchup against the Indiana Pacers, he hurt his right ankle, further complicating his recovery. These setbacks compelled him to undergo two surgeries during the offseason to address the persistent issues with both ankles.
The hardship didn’t end there. In the 2022-23 season, Middleton grappled with a torn ligament in his wrist, necessitating surgery during the offseason. Furthermore, he had to contend with knee surgery in 2023. Despite these challenges, Middleton managed to appear in 33 games during the 2022-23 season, followed by 55 games in the subsequent 2023-24 season. "Having a successful season out there is playing damn near 82 games,” Middleton once remarked, underscoring his ambitions and his dissatisfaction with having to sit out due to injuries.
A Player's Perspective
Middleton's commitment to the team is evident in his candid reflections on his season aspirations. “Understanding that there may be a couple games where you can't go because you got kneed to the thigh or something like a bad ankle sprain, those types of things, you miss one or two games,” he explained, conveying both his understanding of the sport's physical toll and his reluctance to be sidelined.
Middleton has set a high standard for himself, asserting, “But not playing only 60 games. Anything below 70, 75 games, no, I do not consider that a successful season for me.” These comments speak volumes about his dedication to maintaining a high level of performance and availability for the Bucks.
Impact on the Bucks
With Middleton out, the Bucks will lean more heavily on other stars, including Giannis Antetokounmpo. Middleton's absence may require adjustments in strategies and lineups, highlighting the team’s depth and versatility. Antetokounmpo, another star forward, is expected to shoulder increased responsibilities on both ends of the court. However, despite Middleton's absence, the Bucks remain a formidable opponent and continue their charge towards Eastern Conference dominance.
Looking Forward
The Bucks’ handling of Middleton’s injuries reflects a cautious approach aimed at preserving his health in the long term while still striving for immediate success. As the Bucks navigate the upcoming challenges, the anticipation for Middleton’s return remains strong, and his eventual comeback will be eagerly awaited by fans and teammates alike.
Eyes now turn to the upcoming season, with the Bucks determined to reclaim their place at the top without their star forward, if only temporarily. How well they adapt and perform in his absence could set the tone for their journey throughout the season.