Will the Bucks’ Khris Middleton be able to play in the playoffs?
The Milwaukee Bucks have been given a major boost as they head toward the playoffs. Needless to say, their already good odds are even better now.
Having finished No. 1 in the Eastern Conference was already a job well done for the Bucks, but with news suggesting one of their stars will return from injury in time for the postseason, it would be fair to say that things just got even better.
Khris Middleton to return for playoffs
If you caught the Milwaukee Bucks game against the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday, you would know that there was a great deal of concern surrounding the health of star forward, Khris Middleton, after he sustained what looked like a nasty knee injury. With the playoffs looming, timing couldn’t have been worse.
Fortunately, reports now suggest that Middleton may in fact be available to the Bucks in time for the playoffs. Following tests on Thursday, it’s understood that there is the real possibility - though not 100% - that Middleton could return. As per reports, imaging on Middleton’s knee gave clear results, however, he will have to go through rehab over the next week in an effort to be ready for the team’s postseason run. With a record of 58-22, the Bucks clinched the No. 1 seed in the conference, meaning their first game won’t tip off until April 15th, i.e., Middleton has just over a week to prepare.
It’s been an injury plagued season for Khris Middleton
Truth be told, this latest injury is the most recent in a line of knee related problems that Middleton has experienced this season. To that end, the 31-year-old has only played in 33 games. During March his minutes were significantly limited, but coming into April he started to see an increase, playing as much as 30 minutes in seven of the team’s last 12 games.
Middleton dealt with various injuries — including knee soreness — during the regular season, limiting him to just 33 games. The team took it easy with Middleton once he returned, limiting his minutes. Once March rolled around, however, Middleton started seeing more regular playing time. Prior to Wednesday’s game, Middleton played at least 30 minutes in seven of the team’s last 12 contests. It’s worth noting, that Middleton has been bothered by knee soreness for the majority of his NBA career. Indeed, he even stated that the problem has been with him since he tore his meniscus in college. Needless to say, his potential involvement in the post season is good news for the Bucks. Though they have more than managed without him, Middleton is a force to be reckoned with when healthy. Consider for a moment that he averaged 23.6 points per game during their 2020-21 championship run. Giannis and Co. will definitely be hoping their boy can get the green light in time for their postseason run.