Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton has had a significant offseason, with arthroscopic surgeries on both ankles. These procedures were crucial to addressing the injuries that disrupted his previous season. Despite the setbacks, Middleton is expected to be fit and ready for the upcoming season's start.
Middleton's left ankle issues can be traced back to February 6. On that date, he landed awkwardly on Kevin Durant's foot after taking a jumper, leading to a lingering sprain for the rest of the season. The play saw Durant called for a flagrant foul for encroaching on Middleton’s landing space. To address this, Middleton underwent an arthroscopic procedure to clean up the damage.
Adding to his woes, Middleton had another minor arthroscopic surgery in mid-June to resolve ongoing issues from a sprain sustained in Game 2 of Milwaukee's first-round series against the Indiana Pacers. These consecutive injuries have undoubtedly taken a toll on Middleton and impacted the Bucks' performance. Last season, his participation was limited to just 33 games due to knee problems.
The ripple effect of Middleton’s injuries was felt throughout the Bucks’ lineup. During the 2022 playoffs, he suffered an MCL sprain in the first round against the Chicago Bulls, sidelining him for a crucial period. Milwaukee subsequently fell to the Boston Celtics in a tightly contested seven-game series in the second round.
However, there is optimism as Middleton has already begun light court work with an eye on being fully prepared for opening night. His presence on the court is pivotal for a Bucks team facing numerous challenges this season.
Bucks' Offseason Movements
A significant shuffle occurred in Milwaukee's roster this offseason. The Bucks signed Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, and Delon Wright to minimum-salary deals, fortifying their bench. The headline move was trading Jrue Holiday for Damian Lillard, a swap that sparked both excitement and concern among fans and analysts alike.
The addition of Damian Lillard brings both talent and challenges. Lillard, now 34, is expected to form a dynamic pairing with Giannis Antetokounmpo. However, their pick-and-roll chemistry did not gel as smoothly as anticipated last season. This integration remains a critical task for head coach Adrian Griffin and his staff.
Moreover, the departure of Holiday has left a significant gap in the Bucks' perimeter defense. As The Athletic's Shams Charania noted, “Given the perimeter defense the Bucks lost by sending out Jrue Holiday in the Lillard trade, they are going to have to win with an elite offense moving forward.”
Concerns and Outlook
Age and durability are looming concerns for the Bucks. With Brook Lopez now at 36, and Lillard's mileage a potential issue, maintaining peak performance through a grueling NBA season could prove challenging. These worries add another layer of pressure on Milwaukee to succeed.
Despite the hurdles, the Bucks have their sights set on making a deep playoff run. The team is banking on Middleton’s recovery, hoping his return to form will bring stability and firepower. His ability to perform at his best could be the difference-maker in Milwaukee's quest for another championship.
As the season approaches, the Bucks' blend of veteran presence, new acquisitions, and star power will be under the spotlight. How they navigate these dynamics will be crucial in determining their fate in a highly competitive league. For now, all eyes are on Middleton and his journey back to the court.