The Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers are set to clash in Game 2 of their 2025 NBA playoff series on April 23, gearing up for an exciting showdown between these Central Division foes. After a challenging loss in Game 1, the Bucks are eager to bounce back, while the Pacers aim to make the most of their home-court advantage. This game will really put the depth, determination, and star talent of both teams to the test.
Season Context & Series Status
The Milwaukee Bucks wrapped up the regular season with a record of 48 wins and 34 losses, securing the 5th spot in the Eastern Conference.
The Indiana Pacers wrapped up the season with a record of 50-32, finishing in 4th place in the Eastern Conference.
In Game 1, the Pacers jumped ahead in the series by capitalizing on Milwaukee’s injury struggles and defensive mistakes.
Key Players to Watch
Milwaukee Bucks
Kyle Kuzma: Without Giannis, Kuzma became the Bucks’ main scoring threat, averaging 16.5 points and 6 rebounds throughout the season. His ability to stretch the floor, with a 3-point shooting percentage close to 38%, will be essential.
Brook Lopez: The seasoned center is the backbone of the Bucks’ defense and rim protection. Lopez’s expertise and ability to block shots will be crucial in keeping Indiana’s big players in check.
Bobby Portis: Portis is a dependable option for scoring and grabbing rebounds. He brings a tough presence in the paint and can deliver crucial points when needed.
Gary Trent Jr.: Trent’s ability to shoot and apply defensive pressure is crucial for disrupting the Pacers’ guards, making him a significant threat on the perimeter.
Indiana Pacers
Pascal Siakam: The Pacers’ standout forward is averaging 20.2 points and 6.9 rebounds each game, with a shooting percentage exceeding 51%. Siakam’s skill set and skills in driving to the basket will put pressure on Milwaukee’s defense.
Tyrese Haliburton: The versatile playmaker and leader, who averages 18.6 points and 9.2 assists, Haliburton skillfully directs the Pacers’ offense and poses a significant danger from long range.
Bennedict Mathurin: Mathurin is an emerging talent, averaging 16.1 points per game while showcasing his athleticism and shooting skills from the wing.
Myles Turner: Turner, the defensive backbone of the Pacers, puts up an average of 15.6 points and 6.5 rebounds per game. His exceptional shot-blocking skills, with 2.0 blocks per game, create a challenging matchup for the big men in Milwaukee.
Tactical Matchup Analysis
Milwaukee’s Adjustments Without Giannis and Lillard
The Bucks are going to depend on a more well-rounded scoring strategy, spearheaded by Kuzma and Lopez. Milwaukee needs to focus on moving the ball, shooting from the outside, and maintaining strong defense to keep up in the game. Coach Doc Rivers might opt for a smaller, faster lineup occasionally to match up against Indiana’s bigger players, with Porter Jr. and Trent Jr. responsible for generating offense and putting defensive pressure on Haliburton and Mathurin.
Indiana’s Strengths and Strategy
The Pacers head into Game 2 feeling good after taking advantage of Milwaukee’s depleted roster in Game 1. Coach Rick Carlisle’s team plans to keep utilizing Haliburton’s playmaking skills and Siakam’s ability to score both inside and outside. With Turner providing rim protection, the Pacers can play a more aggressive defense on the outside, confident that they have a shot-blocker ready to back them up.
Mathurin and Nesmith’s ability to shoot will open up the Bucks’ defense, allowing Haliburton and Siakam to drive more easily. The Pacers’ well-rounded scoring and flexible defense present a challenging matchup for the Bucks, particularly in Giannis’s absence.
This game is set to be an intense, strategic showdown. The Bucks will put up a strong fight to steer clear of a 0-2 deficit, but missing their top two players puts them at a significant disadvantage.
Sports Betting Ace’s Final Score Prediction: Indiana Pacers 112, Milwaukee Bucks 104
The Pacers have the advantage thanks to their strong roster, good health, and standout players. Haliburton and Siakam are set to deliver a powerful offensive display, while Turner’s defense will keep Milwaukee’s inside scoring in check. The Bucks will put up a fight, with Kuzma and Lopez stepping up, but in the end, they’ll come up short away from home.