Pacers vs Bucks Game 2 Breakdown from a Bettor’s View
Indiana flat-out dominated Milwaukee in Game 1 — a wire-to-wire 117-98 blowout that wasn’t even as close as the score suggests. The Pacers shot over 51% from the field, got 25 from Pascal Siakam, and never looked back after taking the lead early in the first quarter. That’s now 16 wins in their last 19 games at home since the All-Star break, and they’ve looked like one of the most dangerous teams in the East during that stretch.
But head coach Rick Carlisle isn’t letting his guys get too comfortable — and neither should we. “The series is one-seventh over,” he said postgame. Translation? Expect adjustments from Milwaukee, and expect Game 2 to be much tighter.
Let’s talk about the Bucks. Giannis went off (36 points, 12 boards), but he had zero help. The rest of the starters outside of him scored just 14 combined points on 5-of-20 shooting. Their biggest issue? No Damian Lillard.
That might change Tuesday.
Lillard’s been practicing and is likely to return for Game 2. The Bucks desperately need his shot creation and playmaking. Even though he hasn’t played since March 18, he could be the spark Milwaukee’s missing. Keep an eye on his status before locking anything in.
Also worth noting: Milwaukee came into the playoffs as the NBA’s best 3-point shooting team — 38.7% from deep — but in Game 1 they shot just 9-for-37 (24%). That’s probably not sustainable. Regression toward their season average is likely.
On the flip side, Indiana’s defense was aggressive and efficient, especially in how they limited outside shooters and kept Kyle Kuzma completely scoreless in 21 minutes.
From a betting perspective, this Game 2 sets up to be a potential buy-low spot on Milwaukee, especially if Lillard is confirmed in. But fading Indiana at home right now is risky — they’re playing fast, confident, and efficient basketball.
This is a classic playoff spot: Indiana’s riding high off a blowout win, the Bucks are desperate, and the line will move depending on Dame’s status.
Stay sharp, watch for injury news, and let’s see how the market adjusts heading into Tuesday.
