The Milwaukee Bucks kicked off their back-to-back series against the New York Knicks with a commanding performance, highlighted by Khris Middleton’s standout game. They will look to continue their momentum on Monday afternoon when they face the Knicks again, starting the NBA’s Christmas Day lineup.

Middleton was a crucial contributor to the Bucks’ 130-111 victory, scoring 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists. While Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard led the charge with near triple-double performances, Middleton’s impact was felt both offensively and defensively, playing crucial minutes and rotating between defending the Knicks’ top players, Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle.

Bucks head coach Adrian Griffin praised Middleton’s performance, noting his aggressiveness and significant contribution to the team’s victory. This game was particularly noteworthy for Middleton, who achieved a season-high in field goals and minutes played.

“Khris is rolling,” Griffin said. “You could tell he felt good out there. He was aggressive. When you see a player like that with his skills, you just try to leave him out there, try to feed him. And he was huge. We needed him. Thought that was one of his best games that he’s played.”

The Knicks have struggled to find a consistent rhythm as of late, posting a 5-5 record in their last 10 games. Despite Brunson scoring 36 points and Randle adding 26 in Saturday’s game, the team struggled with depth, particularly after losing center Mitchell Robinson to a season-ending ankle injury.

Isaiah Hartenstein stepped up with a double-double but faced early foul trouble, impacting the Knicks’ start. The team’s depth issues were further highlighted by the limited contribution from recently signed 38-year-old Taj Gibson.

The Knicks’ Christmas Day record stands at 23-32, while the Bucks hold a 5-4 record for games played on this holiday. The upcoming rematch offers the Knicks a chance for redemption and the Bucks an opportunity to solidify their strong performance in the series.