Middleton Shines in Return as Bucks Top Suns Without Giannis

In a high-scoring showdown without Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks managed to secure a thrilling 140-129 victory over the Phoenix Suns. Khris Middleton made a spectacular return from a 16-game absence due to a sprained ankle, showcasing his offensive prowess with 22 points and seven assists. Middleton wasted no time getting back into the groove, hitting a 3-pointer early on and setting the tone for the Bucks. His performance was lauded by both coach Doc Rivers and teammate Damian Lillard, who praised Middleton's patience in returning only when he felt completely ready.

Middleton's impact extended beyond his individual performance, as his presence on the court helped ignite a standout game from Bobby Portis, who notched a career-high 31 points and 10 rebounds off the bench. With Middleton leading the charge alongside Damian Lillard, who contributed 31 points and 16 rebounds, the Bucks displayed resilience and depth in the absence of their star player. Antetokounmpo's decision to sit out due to hamstring soreness was met with cautious approval from the team, highlighting the collective commitment to prioritizing player health as the regular season winds down. As Middleton aims to maintain his form and stay injury-free in the remaining games, the Bucks are optimistic about their prospects moving forward in the competitive NBA landscape.