Khris Middleton’s Return in Limbo Amid Trade Speculations for Jerami Grant

Khris Middleton, the Milwaukee Bucks‘ three-time All-Star and key player in their 2021 NBA Championship run, remains sidelined as he recovers from double ankle surgeries undergone in the offseason. According to sources from ESPN, Middleton was medically cleared some time ago, yet he continues to work on building physical readiness for his anticipated return to the court. Throughout this period, Middleton has been actively participating in on-court activities and has consistently engaged in 3-on-3 play.

Despite Middleton’s prolonged absence, longer than initially anticipated by the Bucks organization, the team remains optimistic about his recovery. Doc Rivers, the Bucks’ coach since January 29, noted Middleton’s progress, stating, «He’s looked good. He’s working his butt off. Listen, I think he’s close. And he’s just going to keep working. This is the best I’ve seen him, I will say that.»

The Bucks hope Middleton will soon partake in 5-on-5 scrimmages, a step that will edge him closer to rejoining his team on the court. Since Rivers took over as head coach, Middleton, alongside stars like Damian Lillard, has only appeared in a limited number of games due to his injuries.

Middleton’s absence has been keenly felt as the Bucks struggled to a 5-9 start this season. His average last season stood at 15.1 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.7 rebounds, but now the Bucks are contemplating a roster shakeup. Speculative reports suggest that the Bucks may trade Middleton’s contract along with a 2031 first-round draft pick to the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for Jerami Grant.

Jerami Grant, currently with Portland, has averaged 16.9 points this season. Although Grant’s defensive prowess is yet to match Middleton’s peak abilities, he is thought to be a strong fit for Milwaukee’s «win-now» mentality, especially playing alongside former teammate Damian Lillard. Grant is known for his defensive skill set and versatility on the perimeter, which could provide the Bucks with the defensive solidity they have recently lacked.

Should the trade go through, it would mark a significant roster alteration for Milwaukee, possibly revitalizing their season’s prospects. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers, faced with their own challenges, have found new potential in rookie Jared McCain, although team performance has suffered with a dismal 2-11 start.

This report involved contributions from ESPN’s Jamal Collier, who highlighted ongoing developments surrounding Khris Middleton and the Milwaukee Bucks.