Milwaukee Bucks: Analyzing Khris Middleton/DeMarre Carroll Matchup
By Reid Mueller
With the Milwaukee Bucks set to challenge the third seeded Toronto Raptors in the first round of the playoffs, we dive into a key matchup the Bucks need to fall their way in order to succeed.
The Milwaukee Bucks are set to face off against a Toronto Raptors team with plenty of playoff experience. Their roster has been to the playoffs in each of the last four postseasons, while adding a new piece to make their roster stronger each season.
One of their big signees, DeMarre Carroll was signed to the team on a four-year deal, heading into the 15-16 season. He had previous playoff experience with the Atlanta Hawks, as their small forward when they reached the Conference Finals and were swept by the Cleveland Cavaliers.
He presents a particular challenge to Milwaukee star Khris Middleton, as he mirrors his game quite well. Both players came into the league as rookies with low expectations. Then made a name for themselves in the NBA as players who can contribute toward their teams making the playoffs.
More from Bucks News
- Bucks 2023-24 player profile: Can MarJon Beauchamp take a leap?
- Piecing together the Milwaukee Bucks’ dream starting 5 in 5 years
- Predicting Thanasis Antetokounmpo’s 2023-24 stats for the Bucks
- Grade the trade: Bucks land reputable backup guard in swap with Pacers
- New workout video should have Milwaukee Bucks fans excited
DeMarre Carroll will be able to expend more energy guarding Khris, than Khris will be able to expend in return.
Much of the Raptors offense comes from his running mates, DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry, allowing the three-and-D wing to focus on spotting up and playing tough defense on the Bucks’ leading perimeter scorer.
Toronto is in a good situation, as the Bucks will not be able to withstand anything less than Middleton’s best.
With that, let’s dig deeper into the specifics surrounding this key matchup.