Fans and critics alike have pointed Gary Trent Jr. as the Milwaukee Bucks’ x-factor heading into the 2024-25 season. Turns out, a new NBA analysis has named All-Star wing Khris Middleton as the team’s true determinant on whether they would succeed or fail in the months ahead.
The Bucks are aiming to reclaim their championship glory, but their success for the 2024-25 season heavily relies on Middleton’s performance. While Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to shine and Damian Lillard seeks to improve after a challenging first year, Middleton’s return to form is essential for the team’s title aspirations.
Analysts emphasize that Middleton needs to regain his All-Star caliber to enhance the Bucks’ offensive capabilities. After undergoing surgeries on both ankles, he is expected to be ready for the season opener, but his injury history raises significant concerns. Middleton has not played over 70 games in a season since 2019, appearing in only 88 contests over the last two seasons.
Despite these challenges, Middleton remains a valuable asset, averaging 15.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.3 assists last season with impressive shooting percentages. His ability to score effectively, especially when defenses focus on Giannis and Lillard, is crucial for the team’s success.
Khris Middleton Named As The Milwaukee Bucks’ True X-Factor For 2024-25 NBA Season
Although the arrival of Trent has given Milwaukee another reliable option on offense, there’s still a need for Middleton to return to his All-Star form. In an article written by Dalton Sell for Behind the Buck Pass, there’s a reason why he is the team’s bigger x-factor for the upcoming season.
“He’s the perfect third-fiddle behind those two, and they’re one of the best trios in basketball when they are all on the court. The only problem is that they weren’t on the court much together last year, and a big part of that was due to Middleton’s health. Entering 2024-25, any success this team sees starts with these three being healthy.
Having undergone surgery on both ankles this offseason, there are questions involving how healthy Middleton will be to start the season. However, if he can recover from this and get back to the shape he was in during the NBA Playoffs and stay there, it could be just what the Milwaukee Bucks need to silence their doubters at get back to the mountaintop.
They cannot win another one without him on the court,” Sell wrote.
The uncertainty of how Middleton will perform post-injury looms large. The Bucks coaching staff is understandably cautious, knowing that Middleton’s health is a primary concern. While there is hope for his return to peak performance, the organization must also be prepared for potential changes if necessary.
As the Bucks gear up for the new season, all eyes will be on Middleton. His performance could be the deciding factor in whether the team can contend for another title. With a strong focus on health and conditioning, Middleton’s contributions will be vital as the Bucks strive to reestablish themselves as championship contenders.
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