Milwaukee Bucks Face Challenges as NBA Season Opener Approaches

The Milwaukee Bucks are gearing up for their NBA season opener against the Philadelphia 76ers, but they will have to do so without one of their key players. Khris Middleton, the three-time All-Star, is expected to miss the season opener on Wednesday as he continues to rehab from offseason ankle surgeries. Middleton has been dealing with ankle injuries that have plagued him over the past season, including a severe sprain in February and another injury during the playoffs. He underwent surgeries on both ankles in May and June, respectively, and the Bucks are proceeding cautiously with his return.

Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers are also facing uncertainty with their star center, Joel Embiid. Embiid has not participated in any scrimmage action during the preseason and has not spoken publicly since the team’s training camp in the Bahamas. Despite his absence, NBA Insider Tim Bontemps believes that Embiid is not hurt and could potentially play in the season opener against the Bucks. This cautious approach is part of a broader strategy to manage Embiid’s health throughout the 2024-2025 season, especially after he underwent another surgery last year.

The Bucks and 76ers matchup on Wednesday will be a significant test for both teams as they begin their new season. The Bucks will need to rely on other players to fill the gap left by Middleton’s absence, while the 76ers will be hoping for a strong performance from Embiid if he is cleared to play.