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With Khris Middleton back, the Milwaukee Bucks must tackle another problem

"Oftentimes, in basketball history, the third guy is the one who gets the least shots."

Jonas Panerio

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With Khris Middleton back in harness for the Milwaukee Bucks and playing well in the two games since his return, coach Doc Rivers now has a new problem to tackle, albeit a good one: how to ensure that all three of his top players are in rhythm and playing at their best simultaneously.

Keep the “Big 3” engaged

Although Middleton is back playing, the Bucks have been without two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo for the last two games as he recovers from a hamstring issue. This means Milwaukee’s ‘Big 3’ of Middleton, Giannis, and Damian Lillard have yet to play during this crucial stretch of the season.

However, when they do, Rivers said he and the coaching staff must devise ways to keep them engaged and connected on the court.

"You've got to keep all three guys in rhythm at the same time," Rivers said.

"That's hard to do. Oftentimes, in basketball history, the third guy is the one who gets the least shots -- Chris Bosh, Klay Thompson with Golden State, Ray Allen with the Celtics -- but you still have to find a way to keep that third guy involved and aggressive. That'll be the trick."

Devastating trio

On the Bucks, the third guy is undoubtedly Middleton, the 12-year veteran who helped the Bucks win the 2021 NBA title with stellar postseason performances. However, with Lillard on board, the former Texas A&M star gets pushed down the hierarchy.

Although the “Big 3” have not played often—Khris has played in only 45 games this season—when they have, they’ve been incredible. In those games, the Bucks have a ridiculous plus-18.2 net rating, which is the best of any three-man combo that has played at least 600 minutes.

Despite the impending challenge, Doc is confident they’ll overcome it. With 13 more games left in the regular season, Rivers and the Bucks are looking to grow, improve, and hopefully peak in the NBA Playoffs.

Former NBA vet reiterates importance of Khris Middleton in Bucks’ title hunt: "He was their closer when they won that championship"

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Jonas Panerio
JONAS PANERIO