The Boston Celtics visit the Milwaukee Bucks in the second NBA Christmas Day matchup, with both teams near the top of the Eastern Conference standings. Here's what you need to know:

Boston Celtics Status:

• Currently alternating wins/losses over last 6 games
• Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown both healthy and available
• Key role players Dennis Schroder and Marcus Smart ready to play
• Some players in health protocols but team relatively healthy overall

Milwaukee Bucks Status:

• Lost 3 of last 5 games, including recent loss to Celtics
• Giannis Antetokounmpo's status uncertain due to health protocols
• Jrue Holiday provides advantage at point guard position
• Khris Middleton proven clutch performer in big games

Key Matchup Factors:

• Brown/Tatum vs Middleton/Antetokounmpo matchup crucial if Giannis plays
• Celtics dealing with frontcourt depth issues (Horford and Freedom in protocols)
• Robert Williams primary interior defender for Boston with limited backup
• Bucks' perimeter shooting efficiency critical to offensive gameplan
• Milwaukee needs to space floor and create driving lanes

Impact Players:

• Boston: Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Robert Williams
• Milwaukee: Giannis Antetokounmpo (if available), Khris Middleton, Jrue Holiday

The game's outcome likely hinges on Antetokounmpo's availability and the Bucks' ability to execute their perimeter offense against Boston's wing defenders.

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