Coach Doc Rivers has been hopeful Khris Middleton could play to start the season after recovering from ankle surgeries, but it appears to be a no-go.

Additionally, the insider noted the Bucks are "cautiously progressing" Middleton towards a return. The sharpshooter didn't appear during preseason and has not been cleared for 5-on-5 practice. This is worrisome for Milwaukee in that Middleton is critical to its championship hopes.