Milwaukee Bucks vs Indiana Pacers NBA Playoffs, Picks & Prediction, April 29, 2025
The Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers are set to face off in Game 5 of their first-round playoff series on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Pacers currently lead the series 3-1 and aim to close out the series at home, while the Bucks strive to extend their postseason run.
Series Overview
The Pacers have demonstrated superior performance throughout the series, capitalizing on their depth and cohesive team play. In Game 4, Indiana secured a commanding 129-103 victory, shooting an impressive 60.2% from the field and making 18 three-pointers. Eight Pacers players scored in double figures, highlighting their balanced offensive attack .
Conversely, the Bucks have struggled, particularly after the loss of Damian Lillard to a torn Achilles tendon in Game 4. Lillard's injury not only sidelines him for the remainder of the playoffs but also casts uncertainty over his availability for the next season.
Team Statistics
Indiana Pacers:
Regular Season Record: 50-32
Home Record: 29-11
Points Per Game: 117.2
Field Goal Percentage: 48.5%
Three-Point Percentage: 37.4%
Milwaukee Bucks:
Regular Season Record: 48-34
Away Record: 20-20
Points Per Game: 115.6
Field Goal Percentage: 47.8%
Three-Point Percentage: 36.8%
Injury Report
Milwaukee Bucks:
Damian Lillard (PG): Damian Lillard has been diagnosed with a torn left Achilles tendon, an injury sustained during Game 4 of the series.
Tyler Smith (F): Forward Tyler Smith is listed as doubtful for Game 5 due to a left ankle sprain.
Indiana Pacers:
Bennedict Mathurin (SG): Mathurin is listed as questionable for Game 5 due to an abdominal contusion.
Aaron Nesmith (SF): Nesmith is probable for Game 5, dealing with a lower back bruise.
Isaiah Jackson (PF/C): Jackson is out for the remainder of the season after suffering a torn Achilles tendon during a game against the New Orleans Pelicans on April 25.
Key Matchups
Giannis Antetokounmpo vs. Pascal Siakam:
Antetokounmpo remains the cornerstone of the Bucks' offense, averaging 28.9 points and 11.7 rebounds per game. With Lillard sidelined, Giannis will need to shoulder an even greater offensive load. Siakam, acquired mid-season by the Pacers, brings versatility and experience, contributing significantly on both ends of the floor.
Tyrese Haliburton vs. Bucks' Backcourt:
Haliburton has been instrumental for the Pacers, averaging 19.8 points and 10.1 assists per game. His playmaking abilities and court vision are vital for Indiana's offense. The Bucks' backcourt, now without Lillard, faces the challenge of containing Haliburton's dynamic play.
Betting Odds
Spread: Pacers -7.5
Over/Under: 222 points
Moneyline: Pacers -340; Bucks +270
Prediction
With the series shifting back to Indianapolis and the Pacers holding a 3-1 lead, they are well-positioned to close out the series. The Bucks face an uphill battle, particularly without Lillard. While Giannis Antetokounmpo's performance will be pivotal, the Pacers' depth and home-court advantage give them the edge.
Final Score Prediction: Pacers 117, Bucks 108
