Though the Milwaukee Bucks got a win over the Washington Wizards recently, they lost starting small forward Khris Middleton due to Achilles tightness.
Middleton was ruled out for the team's next matchup, a thrilling win over the Portland Trail Blazers. Speaking to reporters before the game, Coach Griffin gave an update on Middleton's status by saying, "No timeline. Just day-to-day and see how he responds to treatment, but I think things are promising."
When asked if there was a chance Middleton would play on Tuesday, Griffin said, "we'll see," and that the team would continue to evaluate him every day.
Milwaukee Bucks coach gives an update on Khris Middleton's injury, timetable to return
This is largely positive news. Achilles injuries are undoubtedly nothing to mess with, so Bucks fans were collectively holding their breath when Middleton left that Wizards game early. It's good to hear that it's being considered a day-to-day thing and nothing more significant.
Middleton has already been on a minutes limit this season due to an off-season knee procedure, and the forward has not been able to get into a groove because of it. This Achilles tightness could set him back even further in that regard, depending on how long this issue lasts.
The forward's health is a major X-factor for the Bucks. They'll need him to reach their ultimate goal of winning another championship, and that starts with him getting off this minutes limit and getting back to being the best version of himself. For the moment, that is put on hold.
Milwaukee's wing depth is already a tad thin this season due to Jae Crowder undergoing adductor surgery recently, so they need at many healthy bodies as possible at the position. They'll certainly be cautious with Middleton's return, and understandably so.
It'll be interesting to see if Middleton is back on the floor for the Bucks in a crucial game against the Miami Heat on Tuesday or if he needs more time to recover. Middleton's health will be worth keeping an eye on as the new NBA season goes on.
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