Khris Middleton, a veteran small forward for the Milwaukee Bucks and a former three-time All-Star, will not participate in the game against the Sacramento Kings due to health management. Having undergone two ankle surgeries over the summer, the 33-year-old missed the first 20 games of the season. Coach Doc Rivers emphasized that this decision is part of a broader strategy to maximize Middleton's rest during back-to-back games.

In contrast, Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks' star player, will take the court against the Kings after recovering from patellar tendinopathy. Middleton has returned to form offensively, averaging 12.5 points this season, but his defensive performance has declined, leading to his current bench role.