Optimism Surrounds Khris Middleton Ahead of NBA Season
As the Milwaukee Bucks gear up for the upcoming NBA season, forward Khris Middleton brings a sense of optimism despite a challenging offseason. Middleton, an integral part of the Bucks’ lineup, underwent surgeries on both ankles during the summer. While he has not yet been cleared for full five-on-five action, the Bucks remain hopeful that Middleton will be ready for the season's tip-off.
Head coach Doc Rivers confirmed Middleton's presence in the Bucks' training camp, although he will have limitations. "He'll participate in camp. We won't have him doing a lot of live action, coming off the surgery and all that. But all our skeleton work, all our transition work, our transition defense, our conditioning work, he'll be on the floor with us," Rivers explained, emphasizing the team's cautious yet optimistic approach.
Last season, Middleton battled significant ankle issues, which restricted him to just 55 games. The troubles began in earnest on February 6, when he sprained his left ankle in a game against the Phoenix Suns. This injury sidelined him for nearly six weeks, delaying his return to the court until late March. Despite these setbacks, Middleton's resilience shone through as he continued to contribute upon his return.
The challenge persisted during the playoffs, where Middleton sprained his right ankle in Game 2 of the first-round series against the Indiana Pacers. Despite this, he did not miss any games, exhibiting remarkable perseverance. However, the Bucks' campaign was cut short as they were eliminated by the Pacers in six games. The offseason surgeries on Middleton's ankles were primarily to address the lingering effects of these sprains, highlighting the physical toll of last season on his body.
General Manager Jon Horst offered a positive update on Middleton’s recovery, asserting, "Khris is doing really well. It's just a normal offseason clean-up procedure. He literally is on the court right now as we're talking. He'll be a very active participant in camp, so Khris is also healthy." Horst’s words reinforce the team's faith in Middleton's ability to bounce back and regain his form. The forward's participation in training camp at UC-Irvine’s campus in California will be closely monitored, aiming to balance activity with recovery.
Beyond the physical aspects of his recovery, Middleton also reflected on his growing understanding of managing injuries. "Knowing my limits, knowing what pain is, knowing what you can play through and when it's not smart playing through. I've learned that a lot over the last couple years," Middleton shared. His comments underscore a maturing perspective on injury management, largely shaped by his recent experiences and conversations with peers who have faced similar challenges.
Middleton's journey has not been without its fair share of obstacles. In addition to the recent ankle surgeries, he has also undergone procedures on his wrist and knee over the past two seasons. His return to the court last season was marked by a minutes restriction and an avoidance of back-to-back games, strategies likely aimed at warding off further injury.
As Middleton eyes a return to full strength, the Bucks' first preseason game against the Detroit Pistons on October 6 will serve as an initial benchmark. While his participation in live-action drills during camp will be limited, Middleton's presence alone is a reassuring sign for the Bucks management, coaching staff, and fans alike.
The Bucks enter this season with high hopes, and Middleton's health is a critical component to their success. As he navigates the path to recovery, his experience and wisdom, gained through years of battling and overcoming injuries, will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in his ability to contribute at a high level once more.