Fear the Deer – Milwaukee Bucks' Merry Christmas

Led by reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks tops the NBA standings on Christmas Day, ahead of Los Angeles Lakers.

Led by reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks (27-4) tops the NBA standings on Christmas Day, ahead of Lakers (24-6).

Milwaukee Bucks is the team to beat at Christmas time and it bodes well for its championship aspirations.

Led by reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks (27-4) tops the NBA standings on Christmas Day, ahead of Lakers (24-6).

Not since 1971 has the Bucks won a title – its only success so far since being founded in 1968.

However, the past three champions – Toronto Raptors last season and Golden State Warriors in 2016-17 and 2017-18 – earned a ring having led when Santa Clause came to town.

Over the past 10 seasons, five teams which topped the league on Christmas went on to celebrate a championship, with the 2011-12 campaign not getting underway until December 25 due to a lockout.

 

2018
Dec 25 leader : Toronto Raptors (25-10)
Champions: Raptors

2017
Dec 25 leader: Golden State Warriors (27-7)
Champion: Warriors

2016
Dec 25 leader: Golden State Warriors (27-5)
Champion: Warriors

2015
Dec 25 leader: Golden State Warriors (28-1)
Champion: Cleveland Cavaliers (19-8 on Christmas Day)

2014
Dec 25 leaders: Golden State Warriors (23-5)
Champions: Warriors

2013
Dec 25 leader: Indiana Pacers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Portland Trail Blazers (23-5)
Champion : San Antonio Spurs (22-7 on Christmas Day)

2012
Dec 25 leader: Los Angeles Clippers (22-6)
Champion: Miami Heat (19-6 on Christmas Day)

*2011
Champion: Miami Heat (*lockout)

2010
Dec 25 leader: San Antonio Spurs (25-4)
Champion: Dallas Mavericks (23-5 on Christmas Day)

2009
Dec 25 leader: Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers (23-5)
Champion: Lakers