The question mark surrounding Khris Middleton

Father Time is undefeated and Khris Middleton is in the fight of his life against him.

© Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports

Khris Middleton’s future with the Milwaukee Bucks hangs in the balance. With a player option worth over $40 million that he has to decide on before June 21st, Middleton’s status with the current title contenders is uncertain. While it would be a huge boost for Milwaukee if he decides to stay, there's no guarantee that he will do so. That said, Milwaukee also has to come to terms with the fact that the three-time All-Star may no longer be as dependable as he once was.

Injuries catching up

After injuring his knee in the 2022 NBA Playoffs, the former Texas A&M star underwent wrist surgery in the offseason, which led to him missing the first 20 games of this season. He missed a bunch more due to knee soreness, and overall, Middleton played in just 33 games this season. His numbers, though, were modest—15.1 points on 43 percent shooting, which was the lowest of his career.

In addition, Middleton has averaged just 57 appearances per season over the last four years.

The wear and tear of the NBA, combined with Middleton's injury history, could be a cause for concern for Milwaukee.

He can still be a valuable piece

Middleton has been the yin to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s yang all throughout their partnership with the Bucks. But with Father Time quickly catching up to the crafty wingman and the days of him being the Bucks’ secondary scorer may be coming to an end. Despite the decline in production, Middleton can still be a valuable piece to Milwaukee as a leader and mentor in the locker room. Middleton’s veteran experience will be particularly advantageous, especially in clutch moments where he has thrived all through his career.