The Indiana Pacers host the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in Game 5 of their Eastern Conference first-round series at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Tip-off is set for 6:00 PM ET. The Pacers lead the series 3-1 and can advance with a win.
Indiana won the last game by 26 points, taking advantage of Milwaukee’s injuries and poor shooting. The Bucks are now without Damian Lillard for the rest of the playoffs after he suffered a torn Achilles early in Game 4. Milwaukee will need to win three straight to stay alive.
Pacers Preview – Can They Keep the Fast Pace Going?
Indiana’s offense has been sharp. They are shooting 60.2% from the field in their most recent win and recorded 36 assists. Eight different players reached double figures in scoring, led by Myles Turner’s 23 points.
Tyrese Haliburton continues to control the game. He had 17 points, 15 assists, and 8 rebounds in Game 4. He nearly matched his career postseason high in assists. The team is pushing the pace and spreading the scoring load across the lineup.
The Pacers have hit the moneyline in 43 of their last 61 games and covered the fourth quarter spread in 36 of their last 51. They’ve been especially strong late in games. Coach Rick Carlisle wants his team to run and wear down Milwaukee’s defense, especially now that the Bucks are short-handed.
Bucks Preview – Bucks Need Big Games Without Lillard
Milwaukee has had a tough playoff run. Damian Lillard missed the start of the series and now will miss the rest due to a torn Achilles. That puts pressure on Giannis Antetokounmpo and others to lead the comeback effort.
Kevin Porter Jr. stepped up with 23 points in Game 4. He hit five three-pointers and added six assists and five rebounds in 33 minutes. Giannis continues to lead the team in scoring and rebounding but needs more support from the bench and role players.
The Bucks have hit the game total over in 30 of their last 51 games and covered the spread in 21 of their last 34. However, they’ve struggled to cover the first and fourth quarter spreads. Without Lillard, they’ll need a fast start and strong finish to extend the series.
Betting Prediction
The Pacers are favored to win and close out the series. Indiana’s offense has been clicking, and their fast pace is wearing down Milwaukee. The Bucks are now without their second-best scorer and playmaker, which limits their upside on the road.
Milwaukee can still compete if Giannis dominates and role players step up. But Indiana has won both home games in this series by a combined 27 points. Expect the Pacers to move on with another strong team effort and cover the spread.
Pick: Indiana Pacers -6 over Milwaukee Bucks
This series is going to end here. The Bucks season is set to come to an end. Good luck with all your NBA betting. Enjoy the game!
