Report: Middleton cleared to return, ramping up physically

Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton has been medically cleared to return from double ankle surgeries but is still working to feel physically ready to make his season debut, sources told ESPN's Shams Charania.

Middleton has participated in three-on-three drills at practices over the past several weeks, Charania adds. The Bucks are reportedly hopeful that he'll do five-on-five scrimmages prior to his season debut.

"(Middleton) has looked good," Bucks coach Doc Rivers said Wednesday. "He's working his butt off. Listen, I think he's close. And he's just going to keep working. This is the best I've seen him, I will say that."

Rivers said earlier in November that he wasn't frustrated with Middleton's prolonged absence as the 33-year-old continued to ramp up.

Middleton underwent his ankle procedures in July. He's played 88 total contests over the past two seasons due to injuries but has averaged 15.1 points per game during that time.

The Bucks have struggled since hiring Rivers in January, compiling a 23-28 record. Middleton has been available to Rivers for only 15 regular-season games, while the trio of Middleton, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Damian Lillard have played seven contests together under the veteran bench boss.

Middleton, a three-time All-Star, helped Milwaukee win a championship in 2021.

The Bucks rank 12th in the Eastern Conference with a 5-9 record.