Bucks Lock up Khris Middleton

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The Milwaukee Bucks have signed Khris Middleton to a brand new five year, $70 million extension. This leaves little room to doubt that Middleton is certainly part of the Bucks’ future plans. The Bucks have many young pieces, including Middleton, that could form a potential championship contender in the future. With the likes of Jabari Parker and Giannis Antentokounmpo alongside Middleton, the Bucks have loads of potential.

Middleton was brought back on because of what he brings on the defensive end of the court. He’s a good three point shooter, but if there’s one thing that you can always rely on from Middleton, it’s his lock down defense. At only 23, Middleton is sure to be a quality player in the coming years as the Bucks look to climb the ranks of the eastern conference.

Middleton has been an absolute surprise in the NBA thus far. After being drafted 39th overall by the Pistons, he only played 27 games in his first season. He averaged six points per game, shooting 44% in his rookie season but the Pistons decided to let him walk after his first year. He then came to Milwaukee and started the season off on the bench. Eventually though, he earned himself a spot in the starting lineup. He averaged 12 points per game that season, all while shooting 44%. He then came into Milwaukee last season but was again relegated to a bench role for part of the season. Regardless, Middleton still played around 30 minutes per game and upped his scoring averages to 13 points per game. He also shot the ball with more efficiency, boosting his shooting percentage to 47%.

Considering how much money he’s being payed, Middleton should enter the season as a starter for the Bucks. The Bucks will certainly look to sign another big man in free agency to add some depth to their front court. The fact that the Bucks retained Middleton makes it clear that they believe in their current young core. In a few years, the Bucks will be a force to be reckoned with.