Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton approaches the upcoming NBA season brimming with optimism, an outlook bolstered by his steady progress following off-season surgeries on both ankles. Despite the rehabilitations, Middleton has yet to join five-on-five action, but the Bucks anticipate his readiness for the season’s commencement.
Head coach Doc Rivers confirmed Middleton's involvement in training camp, revealing that his participation, while active, will be tempered. "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," Rivers stated.
Middleton's optimism is noteworthy, considering the significant ankle issues that hampered him last season, limiting his appearances to just 55 games. His left ankle sprain on February 6 against the Phoenix Suns sidelined him for nearly six weeks, only for him to return to play in late March. Adding to his catalogue of injuries, Middleton later sprained his right ankle in Game 2 of the first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, although he remarkably did not miss any subsequent games. Despite his resilience, the Bucks' postseason run was cut short as they were eliminated by the Pacers in six games.
General Manager Jon Horst emphasized the routine nature of Middleton’s surgeries during the off-season, designed to address the strains suffered during the season. "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 said, adding a layer of reassurance for Bucks fans.
Over the past two seasons, Middleton has also undergone surgeries on his wrist and knee. The cumulative impact of these injuries saw him starting last season on a strict minutes limit, rarely featuring in back-to-back games. Nevertheless, Middleton's veteran experience and understanding of his physical thresholds allow him to approach his recovery and conditioning with a measured perspective.
"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 said, reflecting on his approach to managing his health.
As the Bucks prepare for their training camp at UC-Irvine’s campus in California, Middleton's limited participation in live action will be pivotal in ensuring he is in optimal condition for the start of the season. The Bucks’ first preseason game against the Detroit Pistons on October 6 will provide further insights into how Middleton's integration progresses.
Middleton’s journey of recovery and readiness is emblematic of a player who understands the rigors of the NBA and the incessant demands it places on athletes. His balanced outlook and adaptive strategies will be crucial not just for his well-being but also for the Bucks' aspirations in the upcoming season.
With the Bucks eyeing a return to championship contention, Middleton's health and performance remain vital. His ability to stay on the court and contribute effectively can potentially sway the trajectory of their season. For now, both the Bucks and their supporters can take solace in the positive updates from Middleton’s recovery and his continued progression towards full fitness.