Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton has undergone a transformative offseason, marked by significant medical procedures that have reshaped his path for the upcoming NBA season. The 32-year-old star had arthroscopic surgeries on both ankles to address multiple injuries that impaired his performance last season.
These necessary interventions were aimed at resolving the persistent issues that limited Middleton to just 33 games last year due to knee complications. Both procedures were crucial steps in his recovery process, ensuring that he will be ready to hit the ground running when the new season tips off.
Injuries and Recovery
Middleton's troubles began on February 6, when an awkward landing on Kevin Durant's foot while attempting a jumper resulted in a sprained left ankle. Durant was subsequently called for a flagrant foul for encroaching on Middleton’s landing space. This injury caused Middleton considerable discomfort and hindered his mobility for the remainder of the season.
In mid-June, Middleton underwent another minor arthroscopic surgery to address the lingering effects of this sprain, which he suffered during Game 2 of Milwaukee's first-round series against the Indiana Pacers. Despite his valiant efforts to play through the pain, his injuries ultimately impacted the Bucks’ performance during their playoff push.
Playoff Woes and Future Prospects
The Bucks' playoff aspirations took a hit last season. Middleton endured an MCL sprain in the first round against the Chicago Bulls during the 2022 playoffs. This crucial injury meant that Milwaukee couldn’t capitalize on its full potential and saw them exiting the playoffs in a grueling seven-game series against the Boston Celtics. His absence was felt deeply by the team and their fans, highlighting Middleton's importance to Milwaukee's success.
Now, with his surgeries behind him, Middleton has already commenced light court work with an aim to be fully prepared for opening night. This progress is vital for a Bucks team that has made significant changes in the offseason to shore up their roster.
Roster Changes and Strategic Shifts
The Bucks' front office has been active in the offseason, making several key acquisitions and trades. They signed Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, and Delon Wright to minimum-salary deals, each expected to bring depth and versatility to the squad. Perhaps the most seismic shift came with trading Jrue Holiday in exchange for star guard Damian Lillard.
However, integrating Lillard into the lineup has presented its own challenges. Pairing him with Giannis Antetokounmpo in a dynamic pick-and-roll game did not yield the immediate results the team had envisioned. As Lillard, now 34 years old, seeks to harmonize his playstyle with Giannis, the team is pinning their hopes on building an elite offensive front.
Milwaukee's approach reflects the sentiment expressed by The Athletic's Shams Charania: “Given the perimeter defense the Bucks lost by sending out Jrue Holiday in the Lillard trade, they are going to have to win with an elite offense moving forward.” This tactical shift places added emphasis on the offensive chemistry between Middleton, Lillard, and Antetokounmpo, making Middleton's health and performance critical to the team’s success.
Age and Durability Concerns
While the Bucks have undoubtedly bolstered their roster, age and durability remain pressing concerns. Brook Lopez, now 36, and Lillard’s 34-year-old frame mean that Milwaukee’s management must be vigilant about preserving their players’ health throughout the season. Middleton’s recovery will set a critical precedent for how the Bucks manage returning players from injury.
Ultimately, Khris Middleton’s offseason surgeries and subsequent recovery are pivotal for the Bucks. His readiness to start the season will directly influence Milwaukee's ability to launch a strong campaign. With new faces on the team and strategic adjustments underway, all eyes will be on how Middleton and his teammates navigate the coming months, striving to reclaim their status as perennial contenders in the NBA.