Boston Celtics vs Milwaukee Bucks Picks and Predictions December 6th 2024

Bucks’ Khris Middleton Set to Make Season Debut in Key Matchup vs. Celtics

The Milwaukee Bucks are set to welcome back three-time All-Star Khris Middleton as they take on the Eastern Conference-leading Boston Celtics on Friday night. Middleton, 33, is expected to make his season debut after recovering from offseason surgery on both ankles.

Middleton’s Return

Middleton’s absence has been a challenge for the Bucks, who have leaned on the star duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard in his stead. Last season, Middleton averaged 15.1 points per game in 55 contests and is seen as a critical piece in Milwaukee’s championship aspirations.

Stay Ahead with Today’s NBA Picks! Get the latest NBA picks today and play smart.

Head coach Doc Rivers acknowledged Middleton’s frustration at missing the season’s first 21 games.

“He’s a competitor, and sitting out is always tough,” Rivers said. “He knows what he can bring to this team, and we’re excited to have him back.”

Middleton’s presence will add depth and balance to the Bucks’ rotation, especially against a tough opponent like Boston.

Milwaukee’s Momentum Halted

The Bucks saw their seven-game winning streak snapped in a 119-104 loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday. Despite the setback, Antetokounmpo (31 points, 11 rebounds) and Lillard (25 points) showed their usual prowess.

Antetokounmpo is already looking ahead to Friday’s marquee matchup.

“We don’t like losing, but we’ll learn from it,” he said. “Boston is one of the best teams in the East. It’s a big one, and we’ll be ready to compete.”

Boston Holds Home Court

The Celtics (17-4) have been dominant at TD Garden, where they’ve won six straight games. They are coming off a 130-120 victory over the Detroit Pistons despite missing two starters: Jayson Tatum and Jrue Holiday.

Tatum (right knee) missed Wednesday’s game but is listed as questionable for Friday, while Holiday (left knee) is expected to return after a two-game absence.

Boston’s depth proved crucial against Detroit, with Jaylen Brown leading the way with 28 points, six rebounds, and nine assists. Kristaps Porzingis added a season-high 26 points, showcasing the versatility and firepower of the Celtics’ roster.

“Jaylen is the guy who does what the team needs in the moment,” Porzingis said. “He reads the game well and makes the right plays. When he’s locked in like this, he’s one of the best players in the league.”

Previous Matchups

Sharpen your skills with our comprehensive betting resource.

This will be the third meeting of the season between these Eastern Conference heavyweights, with Boston winning both previous contests:

1. Oct. 28 (Boston): Celtics won 119-108, showcasing their defensive intensity and depth.
2. Nov. 10 (Milwaukee): Celtics edged the Bucks 113-107 in a closely contested game.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Khris Middleton vs. Boston’s Defense: How effective Middleton can be in his return against a defensively stout Celtics team will be a major storyline.
2. Antetokounmpo and Lillard vs. Boston’s Frontline: Giannis and Dame will face a tough challenge from Porzingis and Brown, especially with the potential return of Holiday and Tatum.
3. Battle of the Benches: Boston’s depth was on full display against Detroit, while Milwaukee’s supporting cast will need to step up to match.

What’s at Stake

This game is not just about regular-season bragging rights—it’s a potential playoff preview between two of the East’s elite teams. Boston, with the NBA’s best record, aims to maintain its dominance, while Milwaukee looks to make a statement with a key piece in Middleton finally back in action.