The Milwaukee Bucks are the team to beat at Christmas time and it bodes well for their championship aspirations.
Led by reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks (27-4) top the NBA standings on Christmas Day, ahead of the Los Angeles Lakers (24-6).
Not since 1971 have the Bucks won a title – their only success so far since being founded in 1968.
However, the past three champions – the 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 who 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 leaders: Toronto Raptors (25-10)
Champions: Raptors
2017
Dec 25 leaders: Golden State Warriors (27-7)
Champions: Warriors
2016
Dec 25 leaders: Golden State Warriors (27-5)
Champions: Warriors
2015
Dec 25 leaders: Golden State Warriors (28-1)
Champions: Cleveland Cavaliers (19-8 on Christmas Day)
2014
Dec 25 leaders: Golden State Warriors (23-5)
Champions: Warriors
2013
Dec 25 leaders: Indiana Pacers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Portland Trail Blazers (23-5)
Champions: San Antonio Spurs (22-7 on Christmas Day)
2012
Dec 25 leaders: Los Angeles Clippers (22-6)
Champions: Miami Heat (19-6 on Christmas Day)
*2011
Champions: Miami Heat (*lockout)
2010
Dec 25 leaders: San Antonio Spurs (25-4)
Champions: Dallas Mavericks (23-5 on Christmas Day)
2009
Dec 25 leaders: Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers (23-5)
Champions: Lakers
