Jason Collins
Dailysports's expert
Indiana Pacers
Milwaukee Bucks
On April 19, the NBA playoffs officially kick off, with the top clubs from the regular season battling it out for the title. Here's my take on the Indiana Pacers vs Milwaukee Bucks matchup.
Indiana Pacers
This NBA season, Indiana performed at a high level, securing the fourth spot in the East. The team achieved 50 wins in 82 games, which is quite impressive. In their last game, the Pacers defeated the leader of their conference on the road, the Cleveland Cavaliers, 126-118. The winner was decided in overtime, marking their seventh victory in eight games.
Starting the playoffs at home is always better from a tournament perspective and easier psychologically, but it's essential to make the most of these encounters. Due to injuries, leaders Haliburton and Siakam won't play, and Jackson is also injured, with Sheppard's participation in doubt. It's worth noting that Indiana has never won a championship, although they've reached the finals.
Milwaukee Bucks
The Bucks had a rocky start to the season, having to gradually catch up with their competitors. In the end, 48 wins in 82 games can be considered a good result, finishing fifth in the conference. Milwaukee concluded the regular season with an impressive streak of eight consecutive wins, defeating the Detroit Pistons 140-133 in their last home game.
The club faces several roster challenges, with Lillard, Sims out due to injuries, and Lopez missing the game. It's unclear whether Antetokounmpo, Kuzma, Porter, Prince, Rollins, and Trent will play. If these players are absent, the losses are significant.
Match facts
- The Pacers have been strong at home, winning 29 of 41 games.
- Milwaukee won exactly half of their away games, 20 out of 40.
- The odds for the upcoming match are: P1 – 1.47, P2 – 2.76.
H2H
The teams have faced each other four times this season, with Milwaukee leading 3-1. The games have been marked by high scoring, with no less than 229 points per game.
Prediction
It's tough to give an edge in the upcoming battle, considering the numerous roster challenges on both sides. Each team aims to start with a victory, and factoring in home court, Indiana is considered a slight favorite. I anticipate an unpredictable match and will take a risk by betting on the visitors' success with a +7.5 point spread.
