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[Saba Sports News] The Milwaukee Bucks may be starting to find their rhythm after a rough season opener, but concerns persist about the health of one of their key players.
On ESPN’s NBA Today, Shams Charania reported that while the Bucks are optimistic Damian Lillard will clear concussion protocol by the weekend, the bigger issue is Khris Middleton’s slow recovery from an ankle injury.
“The real concern in Milwaukee is Khris Middleton,” Charania said.
“His absence has been glaring for this team. He hasn’t even progressed to 5-on-5 drills yet, and there’s no clear timeline for when that will happen. His recovery has taken much longer than team officials anticipated. They’re hopeful he can start 5-on-5 practices in the next couple of weeks and work toward a return.”
Middleton’s ongoing absence is worrisome, especially considering the offseason procedures on his ankle.
The Bucks initially expected him to be ready for the season opener, but 12 games in, he still appears weeks away from a return.
A vital part of Milwaukee’s core, Middleton averaged 15.1 points, 5.3 assists, and provided critical defensive contributions in 55 games last season.
His prolonged absence has left a noticeable gap in the Bucks’ lineup.