Kris Middleton Worrisome Health

With the Milwaukee Bucks on a six-game winning streak following the All-Star break, the team’s recent chatter has somewhat subsided. The health of All-Star winger Khris Middleton, who has been out since early February with an ankle sprain, is a

Middleton will not play in Wednesday’s game against the Golden State Warriors, according to the most recent injury report the Bucks released. In the end, this raises the question: Can Khris Middleton maintain his health in time for the postseason?

For the Bucks, Middleton’s health will be crucial.
After suffering a knee injury during the 2022 NBA Playoffs, Khris is no longer the same player. He only appeared in 33 games last season due to an injury-plagued campaign; this season, he has only participated in 43 games. The ankle sprain he sustained when he landed on Kevin Durant’s foot while trying a shot has not fully healed.

It’s also unclear when Bucks coach Doc Rivers will make his comeback, despite his recent indications of impending return. For the Bucks to be competitive in the postseason, they will need to know for sure what Middleton’s situation is, according to Stephen Noh of Sporting News.

“During their championship run, he was their second-best player, and he hasn’t been able to reach that same caliber. When he’s on the court, he’s still a good offensive player, even though he’s lost two or three steps defensively, Noh noted.

“Over the past few years, Middleton has made significant progress in the area of health. He has experienced ailments to his knee, ankle, wrist, and back. For the majority of the season, the Bucks attempted to minimize his minutes, but he remained injured.”

Bucks require depth.
The Bucks lack playmakers and creators of shots except Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Twelve-year-old Middleton is a skilled shooter who can also set up plays for others. A deep playoff run may depend on getting him to or near maximum health come playoff time.

“If Middleton can’t play at least 30 minutes a game, this club won’t advance far in the playoffs. With him gone, they lack the depth and offensive capability to cover his absence in the lineup. Right now, that seems like a very risky prospect,” Noh continued.