Khris Middleton made a notable return to the court, contributing 8 points off the bench as the Milwaukee Bucks secured a 121-105 victory over the San Antonio Spurs. This win marked the Bucks' second consecutive triumph following a challenging period where they lost four out of five games. Middleton, at 33 years old, has been navigating a delicate balance between contributing to his team's success and managing his health, particularly after undergoing bilateral ankle surgeries over the summer.
Middleton's performance against the Spurs came after he missed the first 21 games of the season due to his surgeries and an episode of ankle tendinitis that sidelined him during Monday's game in Toronto. Since making his season debut in early December, he has averaged 12.7 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.4 rebounds in 23.8 minutes per game. Despite these promising statistics, the Bucks have struggled to find consistent rhythm with him on the court, as indicated by their 3-4 record in games where Middleton has started.
Coach Doc Rivers explained that Middleton's role off the bench against the Spurs was primarily due to health concerns and a minutes restriction rather than performance issues. Rivers emphasized the importance of closely monitoring Middleton's ankle issues to ensure his long-term contribution to the team.
"The bottom line is just not moving every night the way you like to," said Rivers.
In the game against the Spurs, Middleton shot 2-of-7 from the field, including one three-pointer, and added 5 rebounds and 3 assists. His presence in the second unit provided strategic depth and flexibility for the Bucks, allowing them to maintain pressure on opposing teams even when star player Giannis Antetokounmpo is not on the floor.
"He's going to be in a position to do more in that second group and it also makes us that much better…. It just gives you an opportunity where you don't have to have me and Giannis [Antetokounmpo] on the court one or the other hard time. You got another great player out there, and it's hell for the other team's bench to have to deal with. So I think it just makes us better and it just creates a lot of balance for us." – Rivers
Despite his challenges, Middleton's return is a positive sign for Milwaukee as they aim to build momentum through the season. Rivers acknowledged the limited sample size of Middleton's playtime but remains optimistic about his future contributions.
"It's just not improving to the place he wants it or we want it, so we just got to monitor," Rivers stated.
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