Following the Milwaukee Bucks’ remarkable comeback victory over the Phoenix Suns, Doc Rivers hailed Khris Middleton as a valuable asset for the team. The experienced player returned after a sixteen-game absence due to an ankle injury sustained in a previous game against the Suns, making the win a satisfying moment of redemption for Middleton.
Milwaukee Bucks: Doc Rivers Singles Out One Player on Team
Why Khris Middleton is an Asset to the Milwaukee Bucks
Middleton has been an integral part of the Bucks lineup for the past decade, notably contributing to their 2021 championship victory. His absence due to injury was keenly felt, underscoring his importance to the team. In an article from The Athletic, Middleton was described as follows:
“As a coach, having a player who can execute one of your planned plays, organize the team, and call out sets is truly invaluable.”
Middleton’s Veteran Expertise
While Middleton may not possess elite athleticism, his exceptional basketball intelligence compensates for it. His style of play draws comparisons to Paul Pierce and Jimmy Butler, both known for their ability to shoot from midrange and create scoring opportunities for their teammates. Middleton, Butler, and Pierce demonstrate a keen understanding of defensive strategies, enabling them to read opponents effectively.
Middleton’s return game against the Suns showcased his prowess, with the Bucks securing a commanding 140-129 victory. Middleton contributed 22 points and 7 assists, utilizing his size advantage to exploit mismatches and exhibit remarkable court vision to set up his teammates.
In the post-game press conference, Middleton emphasized his attentiveness to his coaches’ instructions, aiming to act as a floor general and position his teammates optimally for scoring and defensive plays.
Milwaukee faces challenging matchups in their upcoming games against the Celtics, Nets, Lakers, and Thunder, including encounters with formidable opponents like Jaylen Brown, LeBron James, and Jalen Williams. Middleton’s contributions will be crucial in navigating these contests.
