Milwaukee (0-1) at Indiana (1-0)
- When: Apr 22 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- TV: NBATV
NBA Playoff Preview & Pick: Bucks vs Pacers Game 2
Line: Indiana -4.5 | Total: 229.0
Pacers Outlook:
After steamrolling the Bucks 117-98 in Game 1, the Indiana Pacers are looking to keep the momentum going Tuesday night at home. They shot over 51% from the floor, led by Pascal Siakam’s 25-point effort and strong support from Myles Turner and Andrew Nembhard. Indiana’s early first-quarter lead never slipped and ballooned to 28 points at one stage. But head coach Rick Carlisle is preaching caution—expecting Milwaukee to come out swinging in Game 2.
Indiana has been a home juggernaut post-All-Star break, boasting a 16-3 record, and showed clear dominance defensively—holding Milwaukee’s starters (outside of Giannis) to just 14 points combined in Game 1. The Pacers also limited the league’s top 3-point shooting team to a woeful 9-for-37 from deep. Expect the defense to remain tight, especially around the perimeter, as they look to build a 2-0 series lead.
Bucks Outlook:
Milwaukee’s Game 1 performance was flat, with Giannis Antetokounmpo doing most of the heavy lifting. He poured in 36 points with 12 boards, but it wasn’t enough to keep the Bucks competitive, especially after trailing by 24 at the half. The Bucks did show life in the second half, and that’s what Giannis hopes to build on heading into Game 2.
The good news: Damian Lillard could be back. He’s been cleared of his DVT diagnosis and has been practicing at full speed. He’s officially questionable, but the energy he brings might be just what Milwaukee needs to get back on track. Still, he hasn’t played since March 18, and there are concerns about how quickly he can ramp up.
Game 2 Prediction:
This is a critical bounce-back spot for Milwaukee, but Indiana’s pace, depth, and home-court edge are tough to fade. Even if Lillard returns, there will likely be rust, and Indiana’s defensive pressure has proven disruptive.
Best Bet: Pacers -4.5
Lean: Under 229.0 — especially if Milwaukee slows the pace to adjust
Prediction: Indiana 114, Milwaukee 107
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
