The 2025 NBA playoffs are set to kick off on Saturday with an exciting rematch from last year`s first round. The Indiana Pacers, seeded 4th with a 50-32 record, will host the Milwaukee Bucks, seeded 5th at 48-34. This opening game is a highly anticipated contest as it mirrors their first-round matchup from the previous season, where the Pacers emerged victorious in six games. However, a significant factor in that series was the absence of Giannis Antetokounmpo due to injury. In the 2024-25 regular season, the Bucks demonstrated their strength by winning three out of four games against the Pacers. Adding to the intrigue, Damian Lillard is currently sidelined with a blood clot and will miss Game 1, though his return is possible later in the postseason.
The game is scheduled for tip-off at 1 p.m. ET at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The home advantage is with Indiana, where they have a strong 29-12 record. According to the latest odds from DraftKings Sportsbook, the Indiana Pacers are favored by 5.5 points against the Milwaukee Bucks, and the over/under for the total points in the game is set at 224.5. Before making any bets, it`s advisable to consult the NBA predictions and betting insights from SportsLine expert Matt Severance, who boasts an impressive 143-83-1 record.
Matt Severance, a respected figure in sports writing and handicapping since 2005, has established himself as a leading expert at SportsLine. Over the past three NBA seasons, his NBA picks have generated a profit of $4,452 for $100 bettors. Currently, he`s on a remarkable 143-83-1 run in NBA picks, amassing a profit of +$2563.75. Following his advice could potentially lead to substantial returns.
Severance has conducted an in-depth analysis of the Milwaukee vs. Indiana game and has revealed his exclusive NBA picks and betting predictions, available at SportsLine. Here are the betting odds and lines for the Bucks vs. Pacers game:
- Pacers vs. Bucks spread: Indiana -5.5 at DraftKings
- Pacers vs. Bucks over/under: 224.5 points
- Pacers vs. Bucks money line: Pacers -225, Bucks +185
- MIL: The Bucks went 43-39-1 against the spread (ATS) in the regular season
- IND: The Pacers went 38-43-1 versus the line in the regular season
- Pacers vs. Bucks picks: See picks at SportsLine
- Pacers vs. Bucks streaming: FuboTV (Try for free)
Why the Bucks can cover
The Milwaukee Bucks have several advantages, most notably their current eight-game winning streak, the longest active streak in the NBA. They have also been successful against the spread, covering in seven of these eight games, indicating they are hitting their stride at the opportune moment. Giannis Antetokounmpo has stepped up as a point forward in Lillard`s absence, achieving four triple-doubles in his last five games, averaging impressive figures of 30.8 points, 13.4 rebounds, and 12 assists with a 59.6% field goal percentage.
Another point in favor of the Bucks is their 3-1 regular-season record against Indiana, also covering the spread in three of those encounters. Their single loss was narrow, decided by a controversial four-point play by Tyrese Haliburton in the final seconds. Motivated by past postseason injuries and limited playoff appearances, Antetokounmpo is expected to assert his dominance as the 2025 NBA playoffs commence. For expert picks, refer to SportsLine.
Why the Pacers can cover
Matching the Bucks` form, the Pacers have a 7-1 record in their last eight games. Their only defeat occurred in the second to last regular-season game where key players like Haliburton, Siakam, and Turner were rested. The Pacers` home-court advantage for this series and Game 1 is significant, as they are particularly strong at home. Despite being the 4th seed in the East, Indiana boasted the second-best home record in the conference, surpassing even the Boston Celtics with a 29-12 home record compared to Boston`s 28-13.
Coach Rick Carlisle`s team performs exceptionally against top-tier teams, covering the spread in 60% of games against teams with over 55% win rates. Conversely, Milwaukee`s ATS record against such teams is only 12-17 (41%). The Bucks may struggle to keep pace with Indiana`s potent offense, which ranks high in points per game and offensive rating. Milwaukee`s offensive rebounding and steal rates are among the league`s lowest, potentially limiting their scoring opportunities. For team backing recommendations, visit SportsLine.
How to make Bucks vs. Pacers picks
Matt Severance has finalized another confident against-the-spread pick for the Pacers vs. Bucks game and is leaning towards the Over on the total. He emphasizes a critical X-factor that strongly favors one side of the spread. It is crucial to see his analysis before making your picks.
To find out who will win between the Bucks and Pacers and what crucial X-factor influences the spread, visit SportsLine now to see expert insights and picks, from a professional with over $4,400 in NBA picks profit over the last three seasons.
Jasper Hawthorne