"He looked really good. But, not good enough yet" - Doc Rivers on Khris Middleton missing the game vs. Kings

Khris Middleton continues to miss one game after another.

© Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

Milwaukee Bucks wingman Khris Middleton remained sidelined in the game versus the Sacramento Kings as he recovers from the ankle sprain he suffered on February 6th. Although Bucks coach Doc Rivers waxes optimism on Middleton’s condition, he admits that the 32-year-old is not quite ready yet to return to action.

The Bucks have updated their injury report.

Khris Middleton is now listed as out (left ankle sprain), but he was going through a workout after Bucks shootaround today.

We'll get an update on Middleton from Doc Rivers pregame tonight. https://t.co/gjVfYlqN6y

— Eric Nehm (@eric_nehm) March 12, 2024

Ruled out on Tuesday

Many fans were excited when the team upgraded Middleton from “out” to “questionable” on Monday. After all, Middleton went through a workout in Los Angeles on March 9 and had looked good doing individual drills. However, much to the Milwaukee faithful’s dismay, the former All-Star was ruled out even though he was on the floor with the team during the shootaround earlier in the day.

Rivers explained that Khris is improving but not at the level they want him to be.

“I think it was probably done because he was questionable," Rivers said. But I don't know. Yeah, there had to be a little bit (of a chance) for sure. But he practiced (Monday). He looked really good, but not good enough yet,” Rivers said.

Last night, Khris Middleton spoke with reporters for the first time since his left ankle sprain in Phoenix on Feb. 6.

"Just waiting on this last little bit (of swelling) to go, so I can move freely without pain."

The full media session, at @TheAthletic: https://t.co/ljtXLdKOM2

— Eric Nehm (@eric_nehm) March 7, 2024

Crucial time in the season

With only 16 games left in the regular season, Middleton’s continued absence looms large for the Bucks. As they fight to gain rhythm and momentum heading to the postseason, the veteran’s presence—or absence—may dictate their success. On a team with limited playmakers—it’s only Giannis and Lillard—Middleton’s savvy game and ability to create for himself and others has been sorely missed.

A report asks a crucial question with the NBA Playoffs on the horizon: When will the Giannis-Dame two-man game flourish consistently?