At 18-16, the Milwaukee Bucks have failed to find a rhythm for most of the season.
Some of that has had to do with the team's lineup situations, as health issues have forced Doc Rivers to consistently switch things up. Chemistry and cohesion are not present in this group. With this unit now getting healthy, Rivers is making a change to try and build up some rapport.
Per NBA insider Chris Haynes, Khris Middleton is being removed from Milwaukee's starting lineup in favor of Taurean Prince. Part of the reason for the move involves Middleton still being on a minutes restriction after his offseason ankle surgeries. Coming off the bench will allow Rivers to keep an eye on him more closely.
Now, Prince, who started for most of the season while Middleton was out, reclaims his spot as the starting small forward, and with it comes a golden opportunity.
Bucks' Taurean Prince has a chance to earn a very nice raise
Taurean Prince came to Milwaukee on a minimum deal this past offseason for a chance to prove his worth on a contender and hope he could cash out the following free agency. Initially understanding that he was coming to be Khris Middleton's backup, Prince has become even more important as he rejoins the starting five for what could be for good.
If Prince wants to earn that raise in the coming months, he must capitalize on this grand opportunity. To succeed in this role, which he did very well to begin the season as he filled in for Middleton amid his absence, he must knock down his 3-pointers while playing stout defense. Getting open looks in the lineup next to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard should help with the former.
Taurean Prince has plenty to gain financially in 2025, and Doc Rivers may have just thrown him a lob, as there will now be more spotlight on him from the opening tip most nights.
While others may view this as a demotion, it might not be the worst thing for Middleton. At least early in games, he may now play in fewer lineups with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, putting the ball in his hands more and allowing him to find a groove for himself. Situations like that helped him log three straight 21-point games late last month.
Whether he starts or comes off the bench, Khris Middleton will almost certainly be closing games for the Bucks, and that's what truly matters.
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