Keep Khris Hot
In the past 29 games that Khris Middleton has played, the Bucks are 19-10, thanks to a historic month of March. While there was initially worry that Middleton might not have his shot back when he first returned, He has proven that he’s still the capable sniper we know and love, with a shooting split of 45 percent/43.3 percent/88 percent and scoring 14.7 points per game.
Still, something concerning is that, in the 10 games the Bucks have lost with Middleton, he has shot only 37.3 percent overall, and scored 5.8 less points per game than in wins. In games where Khris shoots his season average (45 percent) or higher, the Bucks are 14-2. In games where he doesn’t they are just 5-8.
Ultimately, Middleton can fall into the trap of taking tough shots, forcing post-ups on smaller guards, or taking contested long twos. The Bucks have to try to get him good, quality shots, and try to get him open.
This won’t be easy, especially considering his competition. DeMarre Carroll and P.J. Tucker are ywo very tough players that are known for their defense. If Khris decides to go iso on them, he probably won’t have much luck.
If Khris can get going on offense and bring the defensive game he normally does, the Bucks will be firing on all cylinders.