Regardless of the fact that the Milwaukee Bucks have one of, if not the most formidable lineup in the NBA right now, there’s no denying that their health will still be the most important factor this season. Injuries have been a major issue for this team over the past couple of seasons, which has been the case for three-time All-Star Khris Middleton.
Khris Middleton Still Not Practicing in Full for Milwaukee Bucks
Unfortunately for the Bucks, Middleton still hasn’t fully recovered from the knee problem that he has been dealing with since last season. The 6-foot-7 swingman had to undergo surgery earlier this year, and he is now still working hard to get back to game shape.
At this point, Middleton hasn’t been able to practice in full. He has been active in training camp, but for the most part, he has been limited to individual drills. It is unclear when the 32-year-old will be able to take part in 5-on-5 work.
Khris Middleton Speaks Out on Injury Management
Right now, the Bucks are taking a very cautious approach on Middleton’s road to recovery. Simply put, they won’t be forcing him back until he’s ready to go.
When that time comes, however, Middleton is confident that injury management won’t be a significant issue for him moving forward.
“I don’t think the plan is to manage it once I’m out there,” he said, via Jim Owczarski of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. “That could change, but hopefully it doesn’t. Just try to listen to them, but as far as I know I should be fine. I don’t think this is a situation where last year we’re trying to protect myself as much as possible.
“I feel like I’m in a great space mentally, body feels great, knee feels great, so I don’t think this is something we should have to manage going down the road.”
It won’t be a surprise if Middleton gets the occasional night off, especially during the start of the season. However, based on his statement above, it appears that he’s confident that he will be a full go once he returns.
So long as he doesn’t suffer a setback (or a new injury), the 6-foot-7 small forward should play significantly more games than the 33 contests he suited up for in 2022-23.
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