Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton is entering the new NBA season with a renewed sense of optimism and determination, despite an offseason marked by surgeries on both ankles. The All-Star forward, who played only 55 games last season due to significant ankle issues, is on a mission to regain his top form and contribute to the Bucks' championship aspirations.
Ankle Surgeries and Recovery
Middleton, who had surgeries on both ankles during the offseason, has not yet been cleared for five-on-five action. Nonetheless, the Bucks are optimistic about his readiness for the season opener. Head coach Doc Rivers confirmed Middleton's participation in training camp, although he will be limited in live-action activities.
"He'll participate in camp. We won't have him doing a lot of live action, coming off the surgery and all that. But all our skeleton work, all our transition work, our transition defense, our conditioning work, he'll be on the floor with us," said Rivers.
The Bucks are taking a cautious approach following Middleton’s experience last season, where his left ankle sprain against the Phoenix Suns on February 6 sidelined him for nearly six weeks. Although he returned in late March, a subsequent right ankle injury in Game 2 of the first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers didn’t cause him to miss any games but still adds to his lengthy injury history.
Lessons from Past Seasons
Reflecting on his injury history, which includes previous surgeries on his wrist and knee, Middleton highlighted the importance of knowing his physical limits. "Knowing my limits, knowing what pain is, knowing what you can play through and when it's not smart playing through. I've learned that a lot over the last couple years. And that's not saying I played when I wasn't supposed to be playing or I played when I shouldn't be playing. It's just experience, going through the years and talking to other people that's been through similar situations. I'm always going to be learning something about myself and my body as I get older," Middleton shared.
This approach seems to be guiding his current recovery process. Despite not being fully cleared for intense drills, the Bucks’ front office remains positive about his health. "Khris is doing really well. It's just a normal offseason clean-up procedure. He literally is on the court right now as we're talking. He'll be a very active participant in camp, so Khris is also healthy," stated Jon Horst, Milwaukee’s General Manager.
A Strategic Return
The strategic management of Middleton’s recovery is seen as crucial for both his longevity and the Bucks' title hopes. Last season, Middleton started on a minutes limit and avoided participating in back-to-back games—a strategy that might be revisited as he makes his way back to full fitness. Ensuring that the three-time NBA All-Star can endure the physical demands of a grueling NBA season without recurring injuries remains a key concern for the Bucks’ coaching and medical staff.
The Bucks' training camp is set to take place at UC-Irvine’s campus in California, offering Middleton the right environment to ease back into the rhythm of the game. The team’s first preseason game is scheduled for October 6 against the Detroit Pistons, potentially marking an early test for Middleton's progress and readiness.
Middleton’s return is pivotal for the Bucks, who are looking to bounce back from their first-round playoff elimination by the Pacers last season. His scoring, playmaking, and defensive capabilities are integral to the team’s aspirations, and even limited participation in the preseason could play a significant role in shaping his regular season readiness.
As the season approaches, the Bucks and their fans will closely monitor Middleton’s recovery progress. His ability to manage his body and avoid last season’s pitfalls will be essential for both his personal success and the team's pursuit of another championship title.
In conclusion, Khris Middleton's careful management of his recovery, guided by his newfound wisdom and the Bucks' cautious approach, will be one of the key storylines to watch as the NBA season unfolds.