The Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee will be the stage for a match between familiar foes as the Milwaukee Bucks take on the Indiana Pacers in the opening game of their Eastern Conference Playoff series. Following losing the reigning Finals MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks enter this matchup as underdogs on their home court. Milwaukee ended the regular season as the No. 3 seed, with the Pacers finishing sixth—the game tips off late Monday night in Wisconsin.
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Basketball: 2024 NBA Playoffs Game 1
Where to Watch: ESPN
Venue: Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, Wisc.
Date: 22.04.2024 02:00
Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks were 2-6 in their last eight regular season games to finish 49-33. The Bucks, seeking a return to the NBA Finals, faced an injury-plagued and roller-coaster season that included getting All-NBA guard Damian Lillard, sacking Adrian Griffin, hiring Doc Rivers, and, of course, the extension for Giannis Antetokounmpo, who remained a force of nature, averaging over 30 points per game. Griffin was 30-13 when he was let go midseason for Rivers, who ended the regular season 17-19. Despite their struggles, the Bucks secured the number three seed in the East.
Indiana Pacers
The Indiana Pacers, under the guidance of Coach Rick Carlisle, exceeded expectations all season. Tyrese Haliburton emerged as a star, leading the team in scoring and assists with a dynamic and explosive playing style. Haliburton became the NBA assists champion despite a reduced return since returning from injury. The Pacers won the season series against the Bucks 4-1, highlighting their ability to exploit Milwaukee's weaknesses. While the Pacers lead the league in scoring, they are 24th in defensive ratings.
Betting Odds
The Milwaukee Bucks are 2.00 underdogs in the Money line on Bet365, which listed the favourites at 1.83 odds. Over 226 is 1.5 odds on 1XBET, with the under available at 2.5. Betway prices the Indiana Pacers (-2.5) at 2.00 and the Bucks (+4.5) at 1.60 odds. Read more here.
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