Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks Prediction, Picks & Odds, April 19, 2025
The Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks are set to tip off their 2025 NBA Playoffs first-round series on Saturday, April 19, at 1:00 PM ET at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. This matchup marks a compelling rematch, as the two teams face each other in the playoffs for the second consecutive year after a 24-year hiatus.
Team Overviews
Indiana Pacers (50–32, 4th Seed)
The Pacers enter the postseason with momentum, having secured the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference. Led by All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton and forward Pascal Siakam, Indiana boasts a dynamic offense complemented by a solid supporting cast, including Myles Turner and Bennedict Mathurin. The Pacers' home-court advantage, where they posted a 29–12 record during the regular season, could prove pivotal in this series.
Milwaukee Bucks (48–34, 5th Seed)
The Bucks, finishing just two games behind the Pacers, are spearheaded by two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. Despite the absence of star guard Damian Lillard in Game 1 due to a calf injury, Milwaukee's depth remains formidable, with key contributions expected from Brook Lopez, Bobby Portis, and Kevin Porter Jr.
Injury Reports
Indiana Pacers
Isaiah Jackson (F): Out for the season (calf injury)
Ben Sheppard (G): Probable (toe injury)
Milwaukee Bucks
Damian Lillard (G): Out for Game 1 (calf injury)
Tyler Smith (F): Out (ankle injury)
Regular Season Series
The Bucks dominated the regular-season series against the Pacers, winning three out of four games and scoring over 120 points in each victory. Indiana's sole win was a narrow one-point triumph, highlighting the competitiveness between the two teams.
Key Matchups
Tyrese Haliburton vs. Milwaukee's Backcourt
With Lillard sidelined, Haliburton's playmaking and scoring will be crucial. Milwaukee's defense will need to contain his penetration and distribution to limit Indiana's offensive flow.
Giannis Antetokounmpo vs. Pacers' Frontcourt
Giannis's ability to dominate inside and facilitate offense makes him a constant threat. The Pacers will rely on Turner and Siakam to challenge him defensively and mitigate his impact.
Betting Odds
Spread: Pacers -5.5
Moneyline: Pacers -220, Bucks +180
Over/Under: 224.5 points
Prediction
Game 1 promises to be a tightly contested battle. The Pacers' home-court advantage and healthier roster give them a slight edge. However, the Bucks' playoff experience and Giannis's dominance cannot be underestimated.
Final Score Prediction: Pacers 112, Bucks 108
Expect a high-scoring affair with both teams showcasing their offensive prowess.
