The defending NBA champion Milwaukee Bucks will likely have to play their entire second-round series against the Boston Celtics without All-Star Khris Middleton, The Athletic’s Shams Charania reports. Middleton has a Grade 2 MCL sprain that could keep him out through the Eastern Conference Finals if Milwaukee were to advance.
I don’t say this with ease about a championship roster, especially one with two-time MVP and reigning Finals MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, but I think the injury dooms their chances to get past Boston, let alone repeat.
Sportsbooks are already preparing for the Celtics to advance, as you’re only getting -190 odds for them to win the series on Tipico Sportsbook. I’d fade that bet and take the value on how many games they get it done. Out of respect for the Bucks and Antetokounmpo’s ability to will them to a couple wins, I like the Celtics in six at +400 odds.
