2 min read • April 21, 2022
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The Bucks will reportedly be without Khris Middleton for at least Games 3 and 4 as he recovers from a left MCL sprain, but he could return before the end of the series.
The 30-year-old left Milwaukee's Game 2 loss midway through the fourth quarter with the knee injury and underwent an MRI on Thursday.
After reviewing additional video and evaluating the recent news reports, the ProBasketballDocs are confident Middleton can return at least by the start of the second round.
There is also a strong possibility that Middleton suits up for Games 6 and 7, depending on where the series stands at that time.
The video assessment still supports evidence of a mild MCL sprain, leading to a short absence.
Milwaukee may need Middleton's sharpshooting abilities before the end of the series and he can still be effective in short minutes if needed in Games 6 (April 27) and 7 (April 29.)
The real liability will be on the defensive end, where he may not be right until early in the second round.
Middleton was subbed out with 6:49 left in the fourth quarter after slipping and twisting his left knee on a spin move on the low block. He stayed in the game initially but was laboring on defense and grabbing his knee before walking off the floor and into the locker room.
He was ruled out with left knee soreness and head coach Mike Budenholzer said after the game that initial tests revealed the MCL sprain.
The medial collateral ligament lines the inside of the knee from the femur to the tibia and the damage may give Bulls' stars DeMar DeRozan and Zach Lavine extra space on the perimeter if guarded by Middleton.
His offense shouldn't see much of a dip as the three-time all-star will likely return donning a knee brace or sleeve. Before the injury, Middleton scored 18 points with eight assists on 6-11 shooting.
As of Thursday evening, the Bucks are -270 to win the series, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
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