Milwaukee Bucks: 5 reasons they will make the playoffs in 2017-18

CHICAGO, IL - OCTOBER 6: John Henson #31 and Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks with their teammates stand for the National Anthem before the preseason game against the Chicago Bulls on October 6, 2017 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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2. Khris Middleton is healthy

Last season the Bucks’ shot at the postseason seemed doomed before it began, as two-way wing Khris Middleton went down during training camp with a torn hamstring expected to keep him out for months. But the Bucks hung around in the standings, and upon Middleton’s return surged up the standings and into the postseason.

This year, the Bucks don’t have to wait for Middleton to return, as he is fully healthy to start the season. Defensively he fits like a glove into the Bucks’ starting lineup, as 1-5 the Bucks are long, quick and athletic.

It is on offense where Middleton most helps this team, as he is the secondary creator alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. Two years ago he was the lone volume 3-point shooter for this team, and while they added a number of shooters last summer he remains their best shot-maker.

With spots opening up on the Eastern Conference All-Star squad, Middleton could play his way into his first All-Star appearance. As the Bucks’ second scoring option he should put up points, and his defensive impact is right there with anyone on the team. While not quite as talented, Middleton’s impact when he is on the court is similar to other two-way wings such as Paul George and Jimmy Butler. With those players gone West, his impact on the Bucks should give them the lift they need.

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