Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton is approaching the upcoming NBA season with a sense of renewed optimism. After enduring surgeries on both ankles during the offseason, Middleton’s recovery process is a focal point for the team and its fans. Despite his arduous rehab journey, the Bucks remain hopeful that the versatile forward will be ready to make an impactful return as the season commences.
Last season was a roller-coaster ride for Middleton, who was plagued by significant ankle issues. He was limited to just 55 games, a figure far below what both he and the team would have hoped for. On February 6th, Middleton sprained his left ankle during a matchup against the Phoenix Suns, sidelining him for nearly six weeks. Although he made his return to the court in late March, the issues didn't end there. Middleton sprained his right ankle in Game 2 of the first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers. Nevertheless, he didn't miss any subsequent games, a testament to his resilience. The Bucks, however, were eliminated by the Pacers in six games, cutting their playoff run short.
The surgeries Middleton underwent in the offseason were a necessary measure post these injuries. Over the past two seasons, he has had surgeries on his wrist, knee, and both ankles, reflecting the toll the game has taken on him. Middleton started last season on a minutes restriction and avoided back-to-back games to manage his health better. This cautious approach might be in play again as the Bucks prepare for another grueling NBA season.
In light of his recent surgeries, the Bucks have confirmed that while Middleton will participate in training camp, his involvement will be limited. Bucks head coach Doc Rivers emphasized this cautious approach, stating, "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.” Gary’s words highlight the team's strategic plan to ease Middleton back into competition while maintaining a focus on his long-term health.
General Manager Jon Horst echoed a similarly optimistic sentiment about Middleton's recovery. "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." Horst's comments suggest that while the process is deliberate, Middleton's progress is on track, and there's a shared confidence in his readiness for the season.
Middleton himself appears to have gained significant wisdom through his injury battles. Reflecting on his experiences and the lessons learned, he remarked, "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’s perspective underscores the maturity and self-awareness he has developed, vital traits for any athlete recovering from multiple injuries.
The Bucks' training camp is set to be held at UC-Irvine’s campus in California, providing the team a conducive environment to prepare together ahead of the season's opening. Their first preseason game is scheduled for October 6 against the Detroit Pistons. Though it remains to be seen how much Middleton will feature in the preseason, his presence during these early stages of the campaign is an encouraging sign for Milwaukee. The goal is clear: to have Middleton in peak condition when the regular season tips off.
The Bucks' management and coaching staff are keenly aware of Middleton’s importance to their roster. His ability to score, defend, and provide veteran leadership makes him a crucial piece in their championship ambitions. Therefore, ensuring his health is paramount. As the new season approaches, Milwaukee will have eyes firmly set on Middleton’s progression, hoping his journey back to full fitness will catalyze a successful campaign.