Indiana Pacers: 5 players that prove the value in second-round NBA Draft picks

Khris Middleton

Khris Middleton was selected at 39th overall by the Detroit Pistons in 2012. Following his first season, he would be traded in an extremely lopsided deal for Brandon Jennings.

Milwaukee immediately injected Middleton into their rotation. Middleton saw over 30 minutes per game in his sophomore season and averaged 12.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game on 44 percent shooting from the field.

Now years later, Middleton is operating as a legiamite second star in Milwaukee alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo averaging 21.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists on 49.9 percent shooting from the field. He’s had no shortage of highlights, even posting a 51-point game this year.

Middleton’s defense has been a bright spot for the Bucks this year as well.

Middleton can score from basically all areas of the floor. Mid-range, at the rim, from the 3-point line, no shot feels wrong for him. He’s a weapon that the Bucks will make use of even more deep in the postseason when good looks are harder to come by and they can’t be quite as selective with shots.

Middleton earned himself a five-year, $177 million max contract with Milwaukee this summer. He’s arguably one of the best examples of talent in the second round in recent history.