The Bucks play better with Middleton on the floor, it’s that simple. Khris Middleton is having an All-Star caliber season; many are calling him one of the biggest All-Star snubs.
Still Improving
Looking back to last year when he returned from his injury midway through the season, the Bucks went on a run to ensure their spot in the playoffs. During his 2016-2017 campaign, Middleton averaged 14.7 PPG, 3.4 APG, and 4.2 RPG in only 29 games played during the regular season. With a full off-season and being able to build chemistry with the rest of the team, Middleton is averaging 20.0 PPG, 4.1 APG, and 5.3 RPG this season heading into the break.
Fitting In
Middleton is a pure scorer and a perfect number two option to compliment Giannis Antetokounmpo. He is able to create his own shot and can also be a spot up 3-point shooter when he has to be. Middleton has been a huge boost to the Bucks on the offensive end of the floor, especially during the few games Giannis has sat out.
Where’s The Defense?
On the defensive end of the floor however, Middleton has been somewhat of a liability. He is 6’8” with a wingspan of 7’0”. With length like that he has the potential to be a force on defense but sometimes it seems that he gets lazy on that side of the floor during the course of this season. According to NBAMath.com, Middleton’s TPA (Total Points Added) is 0, with is OPA (Offensive Points Added) being +50.7 and his DPS (Defensive Points Saved) being -50.7. To get some perspective I will compare that to Giannis who’s TPA is 265.72, with is OPA of +187.57 and a DPS of +78.15.
Still Khash
Khris remains a local favorite, and Milwaukee is definitely happy to have him fully healthy this season. His defensive numbers do leave some mild cause for concern. Keep in mind, though, that the Bucks defense has gotten quite a bit better with new interim head coach Joe Prunty at the helm. Heading into the end of the season and the playoffs, I fully expect Khris Middleton and the rest of the Bucks defensive statistics to continue to rise.
If the Bucks are to have any playoff success this season, they will need #22 to shine as Giannis’ number 2.
(AP Photo/Morry Gash)
