Khris Middleton Return Update: Big Boost for Bucks, as 3X All-Star Set to Make His Comeback After 40 Days

Despite their second seed in the East, the Milwaukee Bucks we’ve been having a hard time lately. Prior to the 114-105 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, the Bucks lost by a whopping 35-point margin to the Sacramento Kings. However, the recent injury update could boost their morale a bit before facing the Phoenix Suns Sunday at home.

Their third offensive weapon, Khris Middletonis expected to return to the lineup 40 days after spraining his left ankle against the same team, the Phoenix Suns. “Let’s hope nothing happens, knock on wood. But I’m thinking of playing tomorrow. » Middleton said Athleticism Eric Nehm after Bucks practice today.

Middleton has been out of action since Feb. 6, when he rolled his ankle after landing on That of Kevin Durant foot with 6:08 left in the first quarter, causing him to miss 16 plays. The injury follows his offseason knee surgery, which caused him to start the season on a one-minute restriction.

Khris Middleton’s stats this season

The 32-year-old has been an effective part of the lineup. However, his recent injuries have taken a toll on him in recent years. Out of 51 possible games through February, Middleton has only played 43. He is average 14.8 points per game, his lowest output since 2016-2017, with 26.3 minutes per game. Additionally, he has contributed 5.0 assists and 4.3 rebounds on shooting times of 48.7/37.8/83.2 per game so far this season.

Middleton has been impressive against Phoenix in his career, posting 20.9 points, 5.4 rebounds and 3.8 assists in the 19 games he has played against them. However, in their first meeting, he only managed to muster 6.0 points and grab one rebound before leaving the arena in walking shoes and crutches. The Bucks ultimately lost the game with a score of 106-114. However, Middleton’s return to the lineup could provide a major boost to their offense.

During Middleton’s recent absence, the Bucks managed a respectable 10-6 record, but their offense visibly struggled without him on the court. The Bucks’ offensive rating is 122.9 with him in the lineup this season, compared to their rating of 118.1 when not playing. Additionally, their effective field goal percentage drops to 0.565 compared to 0.581 in Middleton’s absence. However, his return comes at the perfect time, as the game against the Suns offers him a chance to step up his game before the Bucks face the league’s heavyweights, the Boston Celtics.

Now that Khris Middleton is expected to return, do you think the Milwaukee Bucks can make a breakthrough in the playoffs this year? Let us know in the comments!