Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton is gearing up for the new NBA season with a sense of optimism. Following an offseason characterized by surgeries on both ankles, Middleton's journey to recovery has been both challenging and inspiring.
Middleton’s offseason surgeries were necessary due to the ankle issues that plagued him throughout the last season. Among these issues was a significant left ankle sprain suffered during a game on February 6 against the Phoenix Suns, an injury that kept him sidelined for nearly six weeks. Returned in late March, he then faced the misfortune of spraining his right ankle during Game 2 of the first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers. Despite this, Middleton managed to play through the pain, showcasing his resilience. Unfortunately, the Bucks were eventually eliminated by the Pacers in six games.
As the start of the new season approaches, Bucks' head coach Doc Rivers remains optimistic about Middleton’s return, albeit with some caution. "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 confirmed. This indicates Middleton’s involvement will be somewhat limited initially, focusing more on non-contact activities to ensure a measured approach to his recovery.
General Manager Jon Horst echoed a positive sentiment regarding Middleton's progress. "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 stated. This news reassures fans that Middleton is on track for a return to form, even if his immediate participation is moderated.
The previous season was a tumultuous one for Middleton, who managed to play in only 55 games due to his chronic ankle problems. His limited availability often saw him starting under a minutes restriction and avoiding back-to-back games to mitigate the risk of further injury. Despite these challenges, Middleton’s performance on the court remained commendable whenever he was in action.
The Bucks are setting up their training camp at UC-Irvine's campus in California, providing a change of scenery that could help reinvigorate the team as they prepare for the first preseason game on October 6 against the Detroit Pistons. Middleton’s participation, even in a limited capacity, will be critical for both his continued recovery and the team’s overall preparation for the season ahead.
Middleton himself seems to have a pragmatic view of his situation. Reflecting on his injuries and the subsequent recoveries, he shared, "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."
His introspection highlights the wisdom gained through experience, underscoring the delicate balance athletes must strike between pushing their physical boundaries and preserving their long-term health. For Middleton, this learning curve has become an integral part of his professional journey.
As the Bucks look ahead to what promises to be a competitive season, Middleton’s health will be a focal point. His ability to stay fit and contribute meaningfully on the court could be pivotal for Milwaukee’s ambitions. With the combined expertise of the team's medical staff and Middleton’s own tenacity, there is cautious optimism that he will be poised for a strong return.
With preseason just around the corner, fans and observers alike will be attentively watching Middleton’s progress. His journey back to full fitness is not just a personal milestone, but a significant component of the Bucks’ collective aspirations for the season.