The NBA regular season has concluded and the postseason is underway! This Eastern Conference playoff game features a matchup between the #3 Milwaukee Bucks and the #6 Indiana Pacers. The Pacers managed to even the series out at 1-1, and now return home. The Bucks need Giannis to return as soon as possible.
Before Betting on Bucks vs Pacers
The Bucks struggled offensively in Game 2 against the Pacers, losing to them by a score of 125-108. Damian Lillard had another excellent performance, scoring 34 points on 10-21 shooting, after tallying 35 in Game 1. Aside from Lillard, though, Milwaukee’s offense was ineffective. One of the biggest concerns is their bench, which scored just 18 points in 72 combined minutes.
Milwaukee’s offensive troubles are of course mainly a result of the absence of superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. He suffered a calf injury late in the regular season, and missed the first two games of this playoff series. The latest injury reports indicate that Giannis is still in the early stages of his recovery, and may not return at all this series. The Bucks will need to find a way to win without him.
Indiana had the best offense in the NBA in the regular season, but couldn’t take advantage of it in Game 1. In Game 2, however, the Pacers shook off the nerves and returned to form. After surging past the Bucks in a 17-point win, they will have a chance to take a 3-1 series lead if they win the next two games at home. Doing so could set up a classic Knicks vs Pacers playoff series in the second round.
All five starters reached double-digits in the Game 2 victory, showcasing how deep Indiana’s offense is. Midseason acquisition Pascal Siakam had his best game as a Pacer, talling 37 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists with no turnovers. Meanwhile, star PG Tyrese Haliburton still has room for improvement. He shot just 4-10 in Game 2, though he did also dish out 12 assists.
Bucks vs Pacers Offshore Odds
Without Giannis, the Bucks are in a precarious position, especially as they head on the road. The Pacers are notably large favorites in this game for a reason, but also not a lock. If Milwaukee can bounce back on defense, Damien Lillard has the ability to provide enough offense to lead them to a win. I’d expect Game 3 to finish much closer than the first two.
