© Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
Khris Middleton on adapting to what the Milwaukee Bucks need: "I haven't worried about my role"
Damian Lillard's arrival in Milwaukee has shifted around plenty of pieces within the Bucks. However, the biggest cog that needed some adjustment was swingman Khris Middleton. After establishing himself as a reliable scorer and playmaker alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee's core, his role has since been watered down with the acquisition of "Dame Time."
In a recent interview with Jim Owczarski of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, he addressed these concerns by emphasizing his adaptability and commitment to doing whatever is needed for the success of the Bucks.
"I haven't worried about my role," Middleton stated.
Played a lot of roles in his career
Middleton explained that his previous experiences in various roles have helped him become more versatile and adaptable on the court. This includes playing different positions and being asked to fulfill different responsibilities, from merely cheering on the bench to crunchtime scoring to defending to facilitating for his teammates.
"I've played every role in my career, I feel like. Starting from high school all the way up until the league. I still play many different roles. A three-and-D guy early in the league. A spot-up shooter in my first year in Detroit and my first year here. More of a playmaker, ball handler, a guy to have the ball in my hands at the end of the game. I've been in all different roles," Middleton said.
Be the best role player
Middleton asserted that it doesn't matter what role he's assigned to. He always strives to be the best at it. It also helps to see someone like Bobby Portis—a walking double-double—living his best life off the bench.
"I'm confident as a player that I can be the best player in my role, and I can help the team win in whichever role that is. That's the most important thing that I've learned over the years," Middleton shared.
"You got a guy like 'BP' coming off the bench who could start for any other team – that puts me in check also. I can put my pride aside if he's putting his pride aside also."
