NFL Tickets
The Milwaukee Bucks have a lot of talent on their roster. It’s hard to believe that a team with the likes of Khris Middleton, Greg Monroe, Michael Carter-Williams, and Giannis Antetokounmpo has a 21-32 record.
After winning 41 games last season, 26 more than in 2013-14, many people believed the Bucks would take the next step when they signed Monroe. Monroe has a had a solid season as he is posting averages of 16.8 points and 9.7 rebounds.
Carter-Williams and Jabari Parker have been inconsistent all season. Players like O.J. Mayo, John Henson, Greivis Vasquez, and Jerryd Bayless have dealt with injuries.
One player who has taken his game to a new level is Middleton. When the Bucks signed Middleton to a five-year, $70 million contract in the offseason, many people questioned if he was worth the investment. Middleton has responded by putting together a magnificent season. The 24-year-old is averaging 17.7 points, 3.9 assists, and 1.2 steals. In the month of December, he averaged 18.6 points and 4.3 assists. In January, his numbers jumped to 20.7 points and 4.9 assists.
It’s clear that Middleton has emerged as the Bucks’ go-to player on offense. His playmaking skills have improved significantly. Last season he averaged 2.3 assists, and this season he has nearly doubled the total. Aside from being a terrific defender who can defend multiple positions, he is one of the best shooters in the league. Middleton is shooting 41 percent from 3-point range and 87 percent from the charity stripe.
Milwaukee is six games behind eighth-seeded Charlotte. If the Bucks want to make a push at the playoffs, Middleton will have to continue to play at an elite level.
While talk of the town is Antetokounmpo with right reason, it’s Middleton who is the more polished player and he may become a star soon if his play continues to develop. Don’t be a surprised if Middleton is an All-Star in 2017.
Share 
