Is Khris Middleton playing tonight vs Pistons? Looking into Bucks 3-time All-Star's Status for NBA Cup (Dec. 3)

Since getting double ankle surgery over the summer, Khris Middleton has yet to debut this season. As the Milwaukee Bucks get ready for their final NBA Cup game of the group phase, it looks like they'll still be without the former All-Star.

Per the latest injury report, Middleton has already been ruled out for Tuesday's matchup against the Pistons. He remains on the sidelines as he recovers from his ankle procedure.

Being without Khris Middleton played a factor in the Bucks' slow start, but they've managed to turn things around. Thanks to a dominant run from Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee is a win away from advancing to the knockout round of the NBA Cup.

This matchup between the Bucks and Pistons will decide who will clinch East Group B. Both teams currently sit at 3-0 and almost have an identical point differential (Bucks are +29, Pistons are +28). Losing won't entirely rule out whoever falls short, as they could still be selected as the Wild Card team in the East.

Middleton has long been a key member of the Bucks' core, but injuries have plagued him in recent years. He played in 55 games last season, and only 33 games in 2023. Still out of action now, Middleton is on track for another low total of games played.

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Doc Rivers provide update on Khris Middleton ahead of matchup vs Pistons

As of now, there is still no timeline for when Khris Middleton will be back in action. However, Bucks coach Doc Rivers did provide a promising update earlier this week.

Following practice on Monday, Rivers fielded a series of questions from the media. Among the things brought up was Middleton's status. Rivers stated that Middleton took part in the scrimmage portion of practice and looked good, but didn't expect him to be active against the Pistons.

As an efficient 20-point scorer, being without Khris Middleton leaves a massive void on the floor for the Bucks. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard lead the charge, but he is a strong third option when healthy.

In light of Middleton's absence, Rivers has had to go deep into his bench to find suitable production. Among those who have stepped up to fill in on the wing include Taurean Prince, AJ Green and Andre Jackson Jr.

Sitting at 10-9 on the season, the Bucks find themselves back near the top of the Eastern Conference. However, without a healthy Middleton, they'll have a tough time stacking up against teams like the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers.