Middleton isn’t flying under the radar now
BOSTON - When it comes to the Milwaukee Bucks, everyone knows about the exploits of all-star Giannis Antetokounmpo. He's an MVP contender and he'll be at the top of every scouting report in the foreseeable future.
Player No. 2 on opposing scouting reports? That would be Khris Middleton. He's been the Bucks' most effective player outside of Antetokounmpo all season, though he doesn't garner the same level of attention or have the same name recognition as the Greek Freak.
He's not looking for attention, either. “He’s quiet when he’s around us; it is normal for him," point guard Eric Bledsoe said. "He’s a silent assassin. That’s what I like about him.”
Operating out of the spotlight may have changed with Middleton's stellar play in Milwaukee's 113-107 overtime loss in Game 1.
Of course, the image etched into everyone's mind when it comes to Middleton is his 35-footer with 0.5 of a second remaining that sent Game 1 into overtime. There was much more to his afternoon than that.
Middleton finished with 31 points, made 5 of 7 three-pointers, grabbed eight rebounds, dished out six assists and picked off a pair of steals. He was patient throughout the game, picking his spots and scoring with efficiency as he shot 60% from the field.
“I know it’s a playoff game, but I told myself just go out there and play like it’s a regular game," Middleton said following Monday's practice at TD Garden. "Play within the offense, try not to force too many things and take advantage of some of those situations."
Room to explore: The Bucks certainly had their share of issues offensively going against the Celtics' toprated defense in Game 1. It was plain to see when they watched it on film.
They were in the wrong spots on numerous occasions, throwing off spacing and congesting driving lanes. They also didn't move the ball or themselves enough to create mismatches or open looks.
One positive they did find, though, was a set they think they can further expliot in Game 2.
"We had a good play that we put in a few days ago, and it’s been working for us real well," Antetokounmpo said, declining to get into further specifics regarding the play. "I think we can explore that play even more and get more options out of that play.”
Not amused: When Middleton's 35foot three-pointer with 0.5 of a second left went through the net on Sunday, nearly every Bucks player and coach erupted into celebration.
Not Bucks center Tyler Zeller, who stood stone-faced on the sideline with his arms folded.
Zeller, who says he hasn't seen the replay of his reaction, offered this explanation Monday:
“I just wanted to make sure it was good," he said. "I honestly didn’t think he got it off, so that’s probably why I had the expression . ... I’ve never been one to celebrate until we know it’s good. I celebrated a little later.”
Speaking of celebrations: Following Monday's practice, the team's veterans summoned rookies D.J. Wilson and Sterling Brown to do a little singing.
The occasion? Monday marked general manager Jon Horst's 35th birthday and the rookies were needed to serenade him and present him with a cake.