Middleton’s return
Just over two weeks after he was ruled out for 3-4 weeks with a left thigh contusion, Khris Middleton is set to return to action against the Hawks on Wednesday night.
Middleton returning ahead of schedule is a big boost to the Bucks, who have every reason to be thrilled with the run of seven straight wins they’ve put together without their second All-Star.
Now, the big questions focus on what happens next.
Bud says there will be a minutes restriction for Middleton tomorrow night, but he will not reveal what it is at this time.
— Eric Nehm (@eric_nehm) November 26, 2019
A minutes restriction may end up forcing a soft change of sorts on the Bucks’ part, but with Middleton undoubtedly set to return to the starting lineup, Mike Budenholzer may well have to face up to a tough decision about who drops out.
Donte DiVincenzo has thrived in Middleton’s absence, while Wesley Matthews‘ performance level has also picked up over Khris’ time away.
That likely points to Donte dropping out and Bud returning to the season’s original starting lineup, but DiVincenzo seems to have generated enough trust and good will that a surprise can’t be ruled out completely.
With that in mind, not only will Bucks fans have to keep an eye on how Middleton fares on his return, but also what the knock-on effect will be on the rest of the rotation.