NBA Playoff Game 4 Preview: Indiana Pacers (2-1) vs. Milwaukee Bucks (1-2)

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The Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks are set to clash in Game 4 of their first-round NBA Playoff series on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. With the Pacers leading the series 2-1, this matchup is critical for both teams as they battle for control in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Game Details

  • Date: Sunday, April 27, 2025
  • Time: 9:30 PM ET
  • Venue: Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • Broadcast: TNT, NBA League Pass

Team Overview

Indiana Pacers

  • Regular Season Record: 50-32 (4th seed in the Eastern Conference)
  • Key Players:
    • Tyrese Haliburton: The dynamic guard has been the Pacers’ offensive engine, averaging 18.6 points and 9.2 assists per game this season. Haliburton’s ability to facilitate and score will be crucial in Game 4.
    • Pascal Siakam: Siakam has been a consistent force, averaging 25.7 points per game in the series, including a 28-point performance in Game 3. His versatility and scoring ability make him a key factor for Indiana.
    • Myles Turner: Turner’s defensive presence and rebounding have been vital, averaging 2.0 blocks per game this season.
  • Strengths:
    The Pacers excel in offensive efficiency, ranking seventh in points per game (117.4) and third in assists per game (29.2). Their ability to move the ball and create scoring opportunities has been a hallmark of their success.
  • Challenges:
    Indiana struggled in Game 3, particularly in the third quarter, where they were outscored by 21 points. Limiting turnovers and maintaining composure in a hostile environment will be key.

Milwaukee Bucks

  • Regular Season Record: 48-34 (5th seed in the Eastern Conference)
  • Key Players:
    • Giannis Antetokounmpo: The two-time MVP has been dominant, averaging 35 points, 15 rebounds, and 4 assists per game in the series. His ability to take over games makes him the Bucks’ most critical player.
    • Damian Lillard: Lillard’s scoring has been inconsistent, but his leadership and ability to hit clutch shots could be pivotal in Game 4.
    • Gary Trent Jr.: Trent tied the franchise record for most threes in a playoff game during Game 3, showcasing his shooting prowess.
  • Strengths:
    The Bucks thrive on their physicality and defensive intensity, ranking fifth in points allowed per game (113.0). Their ability to control the boards and capitalize on second-chance opportunities will be key.
  • Challenges:
    Milwaukee’s supporting cast has struggled to provide consistent scoring, putting additional pressure on Antetokounmpo. They’ll need a more balanced effort to even the series.

Key Matchups

  1. Tyrese Haliburton vs. Damian Lillard:
    A battle of elite guards, Haliburton’s playmaking and Lillard’s scoring ability will set the tone for the game.
  2. Pascal Siakam vs. Giannis Antetokounmpo:
    Siakam’s versatility will be tested by Antetokounmpo’s dominance in the paint.
  3. Three-Point Shooting:
    The Bucks’ ability to hit from beyond the arc, led by Gary Trent Jr., will challenge Indiana’s perimeter defense.

What’s at Stake

  • For the Pacers: A win would give Indiana a commanding 3-1 series lead, putting them one step closer to advancing to the Eastern Conference semifinals.
  • For the Bucks: A victory would even the series at 2-2, shifting momentum back to Milwaukee as they fight to avoid elimination.

Game Odds

Indiana Pacers                  226.5

Milwaukee Bucks            – 4.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, April 26, 2025