The Milwaukee Bucks have a titanic tussle on Christmas Day against the Boston Celtics. Ahead of a potential Eastern Conference Finals preview, many were wondering if Khris Middleton would return from his injury. So, is Middleton playing against the Celtics on Christmas?

Is Khris Middleton playing on Christmas vs. Celtics

Khris Middleton's injury status for playing vs. the Celtics was already looking bleak with the Bucks' injury report initially keeping him at “doubtful.” Shortly before the start of the game, Bucks head coach Mike Budenholzer ruled Middleton out, per ESPN's Jamal Collier.

Khris Middleton has featured in just seven games so far this season as he works his way back from injury. He will now have missed the last five games because of this injury.

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While the showdown could be huge from a narrative standpoint, it's still just one of 82 on the season. The Bucks need to prioritize easing Middleton back to full health so that he'll be ready when the games start to matter even more in the postseason.

Whoever wins the Christmas clash would have sole possession for the best record in the NBA and would give the victor an edge in the season series. Having Khris Middleton playing and healthy tonight vs. the Celtics would help the Bucks snatch a win in Boston, but that's just not going to happen in this one.