Khris Middleton Set to Make Season Debut Against Celtics After Long Recovery
Milwaukee Bucks fans, the wait is finally over! Khris Middleton, the Bucks’ star forward, is set to make his highly anticipated season debut this Friday against the Boston Celtics. After a grueling offseason filled with recovery and rehab from surgeries on both ankles, Middleton is ready to hit the court, according to his agent, Mike Lindeman, who confirmed the news to ESPN’s Bobby Marks on Thursday.
Middleton’s return couldn’t come at a better time for the Bucks, who are looking to bounce back after a tough 119-104 loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday. That loss snapped Milwaukee’s impressive seven-game winning streak, leaving fans eager for a spark to reignite the team’s momentum. Middleton, a three-time All-Star and one of the league’s most reliable scorers, might just be the answer.
Middleton’s Long Road to Recovery
It’s been a challenging journey for Middleton, who missed the first 21 games of the season while recovering from offseason arthroscopic surgeries on both ankles. These procedures were necessary to address lingering issues from injuries he sustained during the 2023-24 campaign. While Middleton was medically cleared to play last month, sources told ESPN’s Shams Charania that the forward was still working on feeling physically ready to return to game action.
On Wednesday, Middleton participated in a full 5-on-5 practice session, a significant step in his recovery process. Bucks head coach Doc Rivers acknowledged the mental toll the extended absence likely took on Middleton, saying, “Anybody who wants to play, and Khris is one of those [guys], they’re frustrated. That’s mentally challenging. You see your team playing, and although we’re playing well right now, I imagine when we were really struggling and he wasn’t playing, that had to be really hard for him. You want to help your team, and he knows he can.”
What Middleton’s Return Means for the Bucks
Middleton’s return is a massive boost for a Bucks team that has already shown flashes of brilliance this season. Despite the recent loss to Atlanta, Milwaukee has been one of the top teams in the league, and Middleton’s presence adds another layer of depth and versatility to their lineup. Known for his clutch shooting and ability to create his own shot, Middleton is a key piece of the Bucks’ championship puzzle.
Here’s why Middleton’s return is so significant:
- Scoring Boost: Middleton averaged 15.1 points per game last season, and his ability to score from anywhere on the court will take pressure off Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.
- Veteran Leadership: As a seasoned player with championship experience, Middleton brings a calming presence to the team, especially in high-pressure situations.
- Defensive Impact: Middleton’s length and defensive instincts make him a valuable asset on both ends of the floor.
With Middleton back in the mix, the Bucks are poised to solidify their position as one of the top contenders in the Eastern Conference. The timing couldn’t be better, as Friday’s matchup against the Celtics will be a true test of Milwaukee’s mettle. Boston has been one of the league’s hottest teams, and Middleton’s return adds an extra layer of intrigue to what promises to be a thrilling showdown.
Looking Ahead
While it’s unclear how many minutes Middleton will play in his debut, his presence alone is a huge morale boost for the Bucks. Fans will be eager to see how he meshes with the team’s new-look roster, which now features superstar Damian Lillard alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Bucks have championship aspirations, and Middleton’s return is a crucial step toward achieving that goal.
As the Bucks prepare to face the Celtics, all eyes will be on Middleton. Can he shake off the rust and make an immediate impact? Will his return be the spark Milwaukee needs to get back on track? One thing is for sure: Friday’s game is must-watch basketball.
Stay tuned, NBA fans. Khris Middleton is back, and the Bucks are ready to make some noise.
Originally Written by: Bobby Marks
