Milwaukee Bucks vs Indiana Pacers Game 3 Odds, and Picks (Apr 26)

• Milwaukee came up a bit short in Game 2, losing the home-court advantage in this series.
• Indiana will be aiming to claime the series lead on their own court, before Giannis returns.
• The Pacers are 4-1 against the Bucks this season, but lost 10 of the previous 11 against them.

The NBA postseason is in full swing! This first-round series between the Bucks and the Pacers. Milwaukee needs to split the games in Indiana to regain home-court advantage, but will face an uphill battle on the road, especially while Giannis is sidelined.

How to Watch

• ESPN

Preview

The Bucks struggled offensively in Game 2 against the Pacers. Damian Lillard had another excellent game, scoring 34 points on 10-21 shootin. 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. The latest injury reports indicate that Giannis Antetokounmpo is still in the early stages of his recovery, and may not return at all this series. The Bucks may 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, scoring 125 points en route to victory. Midseason acquisition Pascal Siakam had his best game since joining the Pacers, talling 37 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists with no turnovers. Meanwhile, star PG Tyrese Haliburton still has room to improve this postseason. He shot just 4-10 in Game 2, while also earning 12 assists.

Prediction

Without Giannis available, the Bucks are in a tough spot, especially as they head on the road for the next two games. Indiana is a notable favorite at home, but is far from a lock to win this game. While their offense is stellar, their defense ranks in the bottom-five of the NBA. That provides an opportunity for someone like Khris Middleton to step up and help Lillard lead the Bucks to victory. I see Game 3 coming down to the wire, with Milwaukee pulling off the surprise upset in the end.

NBA Picks

• Bucks 121, Pacers 117 (MIL +165)