The Milwaukee Bucks have been on a strong run, winning nine of their last 11 games, despite Wednesday’s loss to the Atlanta Hawks.
They’ll add Khris Middleton to the mix, with the three-time All-Star making his season debut on Friday against the Boston Celtics, per ESPN’s Bobby Marks.
The veteran was cleared to return on November 20 after offseason ankle surgeries but continued rehabbing before feeling ready to play.
Middleton, who’s dealt with injuries in recent seasons, has averaged 15.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.1 assists over the past two years, down from his All-Star 2021-22 numbers of 20.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.4 assists.
With a $34 million player option for next season, the forward will need to show he can return to form to make that decision. While the Bucks don’t necessarily need him to regain All-Star status, his return will provide depth and ease the scoring load on Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.
In Middleton’s absence, Taurean Prince has started as a small forward, averaging 9.0 points per game. Middleton’s return will add a key piece to the Bucks’ lineup, though it’s uncertain how Coach Doc Rivers will adjust.
Khris Middleton To Make Season Debut On Friday https://t.co/I44CShs1kF pic.twitter.com/1CvUvA1S9P
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) December 5, 2024
