Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers said All-Star forward Khris Middleton took part in some 5-on-5 battles during Monday’s practice.

While that is the case and Middleton looked great, Rivers added that it is unlikely he will play in Tuesday’s game against the Detroit Pistons.

Eric Nehm of The Athletic shared the news.

Middleton hasn’t played yet this season; However, the experienced striker is likely to return this season.

The Bucks are letting the 33-year-old slowly improve his game. It’s unlikely Middleton will play against the Pistons on Tuesday, and that will likely be the case in the rematch at home as well
Wednesday against the Atlanta Hawks.

The Bucks are starting to find their rhythm after a slow start to the season. After a 2-8 start, the Bucks have won eight of their last nine games and now have a 10-9 record, which is above .500 for the first time since going 1-0.

Thanks to the spectacular play of superstars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, Milwaukee remains afloat. While the stars play like this, Middleton’s game is still sorely missed.

A few weeks ago, ESPN’s Shams Charania shared that Middleton had been medically cleared to play after months of layoff.

Rivers hasn’t coached Middleton much since he took over on Jan. 29. Rivers only coached Middleton for 15 games in the regular season, and the trio of Middleton, Antetokounmpo and Lillard only played seven games together under Rivers.

Middleton has been a pillar of the Bucks’ organization in recent years and was a catalyst in their 2021 title win. The former Texas A&M Aggie spent 11 years in Milwaukee and had a solid career, averaging 17.3 points per game, 4.9 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.2 steals while shooting 46 percent from the field and 39 percent from three in 712 games and 650 starts.

Although Middleton was a spectacular player for the Bucks, injuries have affected his play. He has been limited to just 88 regular season games since the start of the 2022-23 season.

Middleton was named a three-time All-Star and Olympic gold medalist.

Middleton is moving in the right direction and we should see him on the court with his teammates sooner rather than later.

The Bucks will soon be at full strength, just as they’re starting to find their rhythm.

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