While the Milwaukee Bucks' core remains intact heading into the 2024-25 NBA regular season, there have been questions surrounding the health and status of certain players. One such player is forward Khris Middleton, who has battled injuries in recent years.
Middleton's recovery from recent surgeries has been a focal point of concern throughout the team's training camp. While he has participated in practices, the Bucks have been cautious in bringing him back to full strength. Head coach Doc Rivers has emphasized the importance of taking a measured approach to Middleton's return, ensuring that he is fully healed before being integrated into the starting lineup.
The Bucks are facing early injury issues
Asked by reporters how Khris Middleton's recovery was coming along, Rivers had this to say as the team wrapped up training camp:
“He played a lot. I would say, he was on the floor, probably 60 percent of the practice, maybe more. Whenever we went live, we took him off. I don't think he was thrilled with that. I think he thinks he can probably do it now, but there's just no reason for him to do it now.”
Middleton's absence from the Bucks' preseason opener against the Detroit Pistons raised eyebrows and fueled speculation about his readiness. While the team hasn't provided specific details, it's clear that they are prioritizing Middleton's long-term health over short-term gains.
To be fair, the decision aligns with the organization's historical caution regarding his recovery process, particularly after he underwent two arthroscopic surgeries on his ankles this offseason. The first surgery addressed lingering issues from a left ankle sprain sustained in February 2024, while the second focused on his right ankle.
Adding to the Bucks' concerns is the recent injury scare involving Gary Trent Jr., who suffered an injury after a collision with Jalen Duren during the preseason matchup against Detroit. Trent was helped off the ground and was visibly in pain as he clutched his left elbow.
If this eventually leads to a longer-term injury, Trent's potential absence could impact Milwaukee’s depth and overall strategy as they look to solidify their starting lineup. While details surrounding the specific nature of the injury itself are still emerging, any time missed could force the Bucks to adjust their game plan significantly, tweaking the starting five.
The Bucks may have to mix up the starting five
With two starting-caliber players out of the lineup, a litany of options to replace them now emerge. It’s entirely possible Taurean Prince and Delon Wright are called in to replace Middleton and Trent for the time being, while Pat Connaughton has also always had the trust of Rivers. Andre Jackson Jr. and AJ Johnson also played the most minutes off the bench for Milwaukee in the opener, which could indicate the possibility of more minutes for them should the need arise.
Going forward, though, it’s practically a guarantee that Trent and Middleton are both still the starters in the shooting guard and small forward positions when healthy. However, right now, it's unclear how healthy they both are, and the team's approach to injuries could see them ramp up slowly.
Milwaukee's cautious approach with injuries has yielded positive results in the past, as Middleton has been able to return to form and contribute significantly to the team's success.
Despite his recent absence, there's little doubt that Khris Middleton will be a key part of the Bucks' starting lineup once he is fully healthy. His ability to score, facilitate, and defend at a high level makes him an indispensable asset. His presence alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard forms a formidable trio that can dominate both ends of the court.
During the team's first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, Middleton also showed he still has a lot left in the tank as he averaged an impressive 24.7 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists across six games - some of which were as the lone superstar on a team without Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
His standout performance included a remarkable 42-point game in Game 3 of that series, showcasing that when healthy, he remains a vital asset for Milwaukee. Provided he stays healthy, there's almost no chance he's still not on the starting lineup by the end of the regular season.
While Khris Middleton's exact role in the Bucks' starting lineup may be uncertain at this point, there's little doubt that he will be a significant contributor to the team's success. The Bucks' cautious approach to his recovery is a testament to their commitment to long-term sustainability. As long as Middleton remains healthy, he is poised to be a key player in the Bucks' championship aspirations.
With potential injuries affecting other key players like Gary Trent Jr., the Milwaukee Bucks must remain adaptable as they strive for championship contention this year. When everyone is healthy, the starting five is clear, but with question marks looming, Doc Rivers might have to get creative.