Middleton maintaining form
Giannis wasn’t the only Buck powering through with a strong effort in relatively modest minutes, as Khris Middleton continued his own strong recent form against the Knicks.
Matching Antetokounmpo’s 21 minutes on the night, Middleton scored 17 points on just nine shot attempts, while also adding in three rebounds and three assists.
Over his last five games, Middleton is averaging 22 points in 28.1 minutes per game, while also chipping in with 6.0 rebounds and 3.8 assists. Even more impressively, he’s shooting 52.9 percent from the field, 43.5 percent from deep, and 89.7 percent from the free throw line during that span.
That last element is particularly notable as Middleton’s confidence with his shot looks to be through the roof at the moment, and that is certainly a major boost to the Bucks’ overall play.
Taking the wider view of Middleton’s recent play, it’s safe to say he’s making a very well-timed and strong impression as we approach the All-Star Game.
The Bucks will face a tougher test on Thursday night when they return to action to play the Boston Celtics.