The Milwaukee Bucks find themselves at a crossroads. With the trade deadline fast approaching, the team must decide whether they can still rely on Khris Middleton, or if his inconsistency is becoming too costly for a franchise with championship aspirations.
Khris Middleton Trade Speculation Grows After Recent Struggles
Middleton’s Recent Struggles
Over his last three games, Middleton has put up two scoreless performances. In losses against the Clippers and Trail Blazers, he combined for zero points on 0-for-6 shooting in just over 34 minutes of play. Sandwiched between those outings was an efficient 22-point performance against Utah, where he shot 10-for-13 from the field. This contrast in output raises serious questions about his reliability as the Bucks’ third option.
| Opp | Result | MP | FG | FGA | FG% | 3P | 3PA | 3P% | FT | FTA | FT% | ORB | DRB | TRB | AST | STL | BLK | TOV | PF | PTS | +/- | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| @ | POR | L 112-125 | 15 | 0 | 2 | .000 | 0 | 1 | .000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 0 | -6 | |
| @ | UTA | W 125-110 | 27 | 10 | 13 | .769 | 2 | 5 | .400 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 22 | 2 | |
| @ | LAC | L 117-127 | 19 | 0 | 4 | .000 | 0 | 2 | .000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | -16 |
Middleton’s inconsistency isn’t just a recent issue—it has been an ongoing theme throughout the season. When he’s at his best, he remains an elite mid-range scorer and secondary playmaker. But when he’s off, he can be a complete non-factor, which is something the Bucks cannot afford in a tightly contested Eastern Conference.
Doc Rivers’ Frustration and the Trade Dilemma
Head coach Doc Rivers was visibly frustrated following the loss in Portland, describing the team’s offense as stagnant and criticizing Middleton’s lack of involvement:
“He didn’t touch the ball, and that’s the bottom line. Khris Middleton had a hell of a game last night, and he had two attempts tonight. That’s inexcusable.”
Rivers’ comments could suggest growing discontent within the organization about Middleton’s role. With his minutes fluctuating and his impact diminishing, the question remains: should the Bucks move on from their longtime forward?
Khris Middleton Trade Options on the Table
Rumors suggest Milwaukee could explore deals that bring in more reliable help. One potential trade scenario sees the Bucks swapping Middleton for Jerami Grant, a forward who brings size and defense. Grant’s ability to defend multiple positions and create his own shot could help the Bucks stabilize their wing rotation, particularly as they try to maximize Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard’s championship window.
Another intriguing possibility is a multi-team trade involving the Chicago Bulls and Miami Heat. According to reports, the Bucks have expressed interest in acquiring Zach LaVine if a deal involving Jimmy Butler materializes. LaVine would add another dynamic scorer to the Bucks’ rotation, providing a boost in offensive firepower. However, his contract situation and injury history are notable concerns.
The Case for Keeping Middleton
Despite his struggles, Middleton has been an integral part of the Bucks’ core for years. His playoff experience and chemistry with Giannis remain valuable, and his ability to hit tough shots in crunch time has historically been a difference-maker in the postseason.
Additionally, his contract situation complicates a trade. Middleton is on a three-year deal worth over $90 million, making it difficult to find a suitor willing to take on that kind of commitment without significant sweeteners from the Bucks.
What Should the Bucks Do?
The Bucks’ front office faces a tough decision. Do they give Middleton more time to find his rhythm, hoping he can regain his form before the playoffs? Or do they make a move to try and secure a more consistent contributor while they still can?
With Milwaukee currently struggling against both top contenders and lottery-bound teams, Middleton’s future with the team is as uncertain as ever. If he continues to deliver performances like the ones against Portland and Los Angeles, the Bucks may have no choice but to pull the trigger on a trade. But if he plays like he did against Utah on a more consistent basis, he might silence the trade rumors for good.
Photo credit: © Chris Nicoll-Imagn Images
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