The Milwaukee Bucks almost pulled off an impressive series win without one of their main stars against the Boston Celtics. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jrue Holiday did all they could, but the loss of Khris Middleton proved too much to bear.
Middleton injured his knee in the first round of the playoffs against the Bulls. The Bucks were hopeful he could return but his timetable was unclear. Had Milwaukee won, there was a chance that he could have played in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Khris Middleton recently broke his silence on the injury.
“I had no setbacks which was something I was extremely happy about, something everybody was extremely happy about.”
He continued by discussing how close he was to returning in the series with Boston.
“I wanted to (return) – but working w/ our training staff & talking to the doctors they said it was just too high of a risk to go back out there so soon.”
His absence loomed large in Milwaukee's postseason exit. Even a historic effort from Antetokounmpo was not enough for the Bucks to overcome the Celtics. Nonetheless, Milwaukee pushed the series to 7 games. They displayed plenty of heart and motivation, and never made excuses despite playing without one of their best players.
Giannis commented on Milwaukee's performance without Middleton following the conclusion of Game 7.
“We weren't trying to make excuses… we don't have Khris and oh it's going to be tough, no, no, no. I think everybody went out there to compete, gave everything that they had.”
The Bucks will not repeat as champions this season. But this could be a dynasty for years to come if they can keep Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jrue Holiday, and Khris Middleton together for the long run.
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