Tonight’s matchup between the Boston Celtics (29-8) and the Milwaukee Bucks (25-12) is shaping up to be a heavyweight battle of Eastern Conference titans with both teams eager to prove their supremacy. The Celtics arrive after a hard-fought win against the Minnesota Timberwolves to take on the Bucks, who have the second seed in the East. The pivotal question looms: Will Damian Lillard and Celtics center Kristaps Porziņģis take the court tonight, given the latest injury updates? We are going to reveal all the updates in this article.

Injury updates and strategic moves for Celtics and Bucks

The Celtics’ journey to Milwaukee comes with a setback as center Kristaps Porziņģis finds himself on the injury list, nursing a right knee injury sustained in their recent encounter with the Pacers. On the other hand, the team could decide to rest veteran Al Horford. This decision is in line with Boston’s big picture, which intends to have their veteran big man fresh and effective when the playoffs come around.

Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the court, the Bucks are also dealing with Jae Crowder still out and Cameron Payne, listed as probable because of concussion protocols. However, Damian Lillard, a critical asset for the Bucks, is set to return after missing action for a short while as a result of personal reasons. Lillard’s presence will be pivotal, complementing the offensive prowess of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton.

Celtics vs Bucks starting lineups

Even with Porzingis listed as questionable, the Celtics have a powerful starting group including Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, and the possible inclusion of Al Horford. However, Milwaukee’s starting lineup with the star trio of Damian Lillard, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Jrue Holiday, Khris Middleton will be showing up with Brook Lopez providing rim protection.

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Khris Middleton is a key force for the Bucks, as both teams seek to position themselves in the Eastern Conference. The range of his floor spacing and shot-making abilities increases the Celtics’ defensive strategy, especially when going against the powerful Giannis-Lillard pick-and-roll. A good matchup is set, especially because it will not only affect the regular season standings but also perhaps become a teaser of what could happen during playoffs for the Eastern Conference giants.

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