The Milwaukee Bucks were able to snap their four-game losing streak due to a phenomenal second half comeback against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night. Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday were not active for that game. Regardless, Giannis Antetokounmpo was able to lead the Bucks back with a historic performance. Giannis and the Bucks will try to continue their winning ways on New Years Day against the Washington Wizards. Unfortunately, they will have to do without the aforementioned Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday.
Khris Middleton Remains Out with a Knee Injury
The official injury report has Khris Middleton listed as out with right knee soreness. Of course, Middleton missed the the first few months of the season as he recovered from offseason wrist surgery. He also missed the Bucks’ second round series against the Boston Celtics last year due to a knee injury.
In just seven games this season, Middleton is averaging 11.1 points on 32.5% shooting. In his limited game action, he is also shooting a woeful 26.8% from three.
Given the Bucks’ recent struggles, it is discouraging that they will not have Khris Middleton. Many fans and analysts have claimed that had Middleton been healthy for the Boston series in the playoffs, the Bucks would have repeated as NBA Champions. As they look to get back to the playoffs and the Finals this season, the team has not yet found a consistent scorer to fill Middleton’s role.
Related: Giannis Needs Help: Bucks Recent Losing Streak Highlights Major Concern
Jrue Holiday Remains Out with an Illness
Jrue Holiday is once again out with a non-COVID illness. His presence is sorely missed on offense and defense whenever he is out. Holiday last played on Christmas Day against the Celtics. In that game, he had 23 points, six rebounds, seven assists, and two steals.
In 26 games this season, Holiday is averaging 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game. When on the floor, he plays at an All-Star level. Holiday has made just one All-Star team in his career and seemed to be on pace to make it this year, too. However, the amount of games he has missed this year may cost him a spot. The matchup with the Wizards on New Years Day will be his tenth missed game this season.
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