Flying under the radar
Lost throughout the Bucks’ early ups and downs has been the strong start that All-Star swingman Khris Middleton has gotten out to through their first five tilts.
Middleton has looked fresh after coming into camp in game shape, stemming from his time playing for Team USA throughout the summer and during the FIBA World Cup, and it’s paid off as the 28-year-old has been the Bucks’ most consistent starter by far. Through Milwaukee’s first five games, Middleton is casually averaging 19.8 points on .529/.429/.833 shooting splits, 6.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists.
Given Middleton’s past early season struggles in previous campaigns, seeing him get off to a fast start by his standards has been incredibly reassuring and it shouldn’t be lost even as the Bucks have been far from their best.
Whether Middleton can maintain his effectiveness against an Eastern Conference foe like the Raptors will put his early season play to the test, as the Bucks will need his wide-ranging services in order to secure a win.
You can catch the Bucks’ meeting with the Toronto Raptors when it tips off at 7pm CT Saturday night.