Milwaukee Bucks: Middleton's Health and the New Season's Challenges
Milwaukee Bucks star forward Khris Middleton has had a tumultuous offseason, highlighted by arthroscopic surgeries on both ankles. These procedures were essential to remedy multiple injuries that hampered his performance throughout the last season. Despite the setbacks, all signs point to Middleton being ready for the start of the upcoming season.
Injury Struggles and Surgeries
Middleton's health issues can be traced back to February 6. During a game, he landed awkwardly on Kevin Durant's foot after attempting a jumper, resulting in a left ankle sprain. This injury lingered for the remainder of the season, and Durant was subsequently called for a flagrant foul for occupying Middleton’s landing space.
In mid-June, Middleton underwent a minor arthroscopic procedure on his left ankle to clean up lingering issues from that sprain. This procedure was necessary because the injury had profoundly impacted both his and the Bucks' performances. Last season, he was limited to just 33 games due to knee issues, significantly affecting the team's chances.
Middleton also suffered an MCL sprain in the first round against the Chicago Bulls during the 2022 playoffs, a factor that contributed to the Milwaukee Bucks' elimination in a hard-fought seven-game series against the Boston Celtics in the second round.
Preparation and Court Work
Encouragingly, Middleton has already started light court work, with an eye on being fully prepared for opening night. His return to full fitness is crucial for the Bucks, who face mounting pressures and challenges this season.
New Faces and Strategic Changes
The Bucks have made significant roster changes this offseason in an effort to bolster their squad. They signed Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, and Delon Wright to minimum-salary deals, aiming to add depth and versatility to their bench. One of the most high-profile moves involved trading Jrue Holiday for Damian Lillard, a move met with much fanfare but also significant scrutiny.
However, integrating Lillard into the lineup alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo has proven to be more challenging than initially anticipated. The much-anticipated pick-and-roll dynamic between Lillard and Antetokounmpo did not develop as smoothly as the team had hoped last season. This has left some questioning whether the offensive chemistry will hit its stride quickly enough to offset the defensive gaps left by Holiday's departure.
“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,” remarked The Athletic's Shams Charania.
Age and Durability Concerns
Another pressing concern for the Bucks is age and durability. Brook Lopez, an anchor in the team's defense, is now 36 years old, while the newly acquired Damian Lillard just turned 34. The fact that key players are inching closer to the latter stages of their careers raises legitimate concerns about their ability to maintain peak performance and withstand the rigors of an entire season.
The Road Ahead
As the new season approaches, the Milwaukee Bucks are caught in a web of uncertainties. Khris Middleton's return to form is a major storyline, with his health being a pivotal factor for the team's success. Simultaneously, the effectiveness of the new roster, particularly the integration of Damian Lillard, will be crucial in determining whether the Bucks can re-establish themselves as serious contenders.
With age and durability issues looming large, the Bucks will need to navigate the season with strategic finesse. The hope is that Middleton's regained fitness, combined with the offensive firepower of Lillard and Antetokounmpo, can propel the team to new heights, despite the inherent risks and challenges.