Milwaukee Bucks' star forward Khris Middleton has had a tumultuous offseason, undergoing significant medical procedures on both ankles. These arthroscopic surgeries were deemed necessary after a series of injuries affected Middleton's performance last season. Despite the setbacks, Middleton is anticipated to return for the upcoming season, a relief for Bucks fans and the organization.
Middleton's injuries trace back to February 6 when he suffered a left ankle sprain after landing awkwardly on Kevin Durant's foot during a jump shot attempt. Durant's encroachment on Middleton’s landing space resulted in a flagrant foul call. This injury would become a lingering issue, bothering Middleton for the remainder of the season, culminating in an arthroscopic procedure to address it fully.
In addition to his earlier procedure, Middleton underwent another minor arthroscopic surgery in mid-June. This surgery aimed to clean up residual issues from another sprain incurred during Game 2 of Milwaukee's first-round series against the Indiana Pacers. The Bucks' performance last season reflected Middleton's struggles, as he played only 33 games due to knee issues and other injuries.
His physical troubles aren't new. In the 2022 playoffs, Middleton sustained an MCL sprain in the first round against the Chicago Bulls. This injury significantly impacted Milwaukee's ability to advance, as the Bucks fought hard but ultimately succumbed to the Boston Celtics in a seven-game series in the second round.
Looking ahead to the new season, Middleton has already begun light court work, signaling his intent to be fully prepared for opening night. Yet the Bucks' offseason activities didn't focus solely on Middleton’s recovery. They also made significant roster changes, signing Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, and Delon Wright to minimum-salary deals. The team made a bold move by trading Jrue Holiday to acquire Damian Lillard, a transaction designed to bolster their offensive firepower.
However, integrating Lillard into the lineup alongside superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has proven more complex than anticipated. Last season, the pick-and-roll play between Lillard and Antetokounmpo failed to develop as seamlessly as hoped. This has raised concerns about how well the two can mesh on the court to create an elite offensive unit.
Furthermore, age and durability issues loom large over the Bucks' aspirations this season. Center Brook Lopez is 36 years old, while Damian Lillard just turned 34. These factors contribute to concerns about the team's ability to remain resilient and effective throughout the season's physical demands.
“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,” notes The Athletic's Shams Charania. This statement underscores the shift in the team's strategy, relying heavily on their offensive prowess to compensate for gaps in defensive strength.
As the Bucks prepare for the new season, the spotlight inevitably falls on the health and synergy of their key players. Khris Middleton's return to form is crucial, as is the successful integration of Damian Lillard into the team’s dynamic. The upcoming season promises to test the Bucks' adaptability and resilience, with the hopes that strategic changes and player returns combine to propel them toward success.