Khris Middleton is not taking this title window for granted

“Every day, you’re trying to take advantage of that, knowing that this window could be over tomorrow.”

Khris Middleton is entering his 12th season in the NBA, so he’s been around the block and then some. The three-time All-Star knows how quickly things can change in the Association—for better or worse—so he’s not taking anything for granted.

Title contender

The Bucks have been a perennial title contender for a minute now. With two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the charge and Middleton, Brook Lopez, and former Milwaukee guard Jrue Holiday providing ample support, the Bucks were able to ascend to the peak of the NBA mountain in 2021, defeating the Phoenix Suns for the NBA championship. However, the Bucks have failed to return to that stage ever since, culminating in an embarrassing first-round loss to Miami last season.

However, with seven-time All-Star Damian Lillard now suiting up for the Bucks, Milwaukee is looking to regain the throne. For his part, Middleton said he’s going to relish the journey since nobody knows how long their window will remain open.

“(I’ve learned) not to take this window for granted. Having this window for five, six years, that’s a long time to have a chance to win. It’s disappointing that we have only won one, but that just drives you to go for more, drives you to try to take advantage of the opportunity. However many more years we have left in this window, hopefully, it’s four or five, but realistically, you never know. It could be shorter,” Middleton said in an interview with The Athletic.

Returning from injury

Middleton wants to regain his form after an injury-riddled campaign that kept him on the floor for just 33 regular-season games. The former Texas A&M stud has yet to play this preseason after undergoing offseason knee surgery. For now, he’s diligently working with the team’s staff to get his body right.

“Every day, you’re trying to take advantage of that, knowing that this window could be over tomorrow. So, come out here, try to be as great as you can, try to perfect your craft, and eventually, hopefully, that leads to a championship, and that leads to you keep contending for championships year after year.”