INDIANAPOLIS — The Milwaukee Bucks are gearing up for a crucial Game 2 against the Indiana Pacers in their first-round playoff series, set to tip off at 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. After suffering a disappointing 117-98 defeat in Game 1, the Bucks are looking to bounce back and even the series.
In Game 1, the Pacers showcased their ability to play fast and connected basketball, leaving the Bucks scrambling. Tyrese Haliburton orchestrated the offense with precision, while Pascal Siakam shone with 25 points, leading a balanced scoring attack that saw six Pacers reach double figures. The Bucks struggled to keep pace, particularly in the second quarter, where they were outscored 34-18, allowing Indiana to build a commanding 24-point lead by halftime.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, who missed last year’s playoff matchup against the Pacers, put forth a valiant effort with 36 points and 12 rebounds. However, Milwaukee's other starters combined for just 14 points on a dismal 5-of-20 shooting from the field. The absence of Damian Lillard, who was sidelined due to deep vein thrombosis in his right calf, was felt acutely as the Bucks struggled to find offensive rhythm.
Now, Lillard is set to make his highly anticipated return to the lineup. He last played on March 18, and his presence is expected to be a game-changer for the Bucks. "I'm playing," Lillard stated confidently after the morning shootaround. "Not knowing if I was going to be able to come back this season, I was able to lift, which was good. I was able to keep my body strong. But it was weeks and weeks before they even allowed me to jump and do stuff on the court."
Coach Doc Rivers expressed his relief at Lillard's return, emphasizing the importance of having the nine-time All-Star back in action. "When you hear blood clot, the last thing you think is him playing again, maybe not ever, let alone in the playoffs," Rivers said. "Dame called me and said, 'I'm playing.' A lot of people wouldn't go out there without the practice, but he says he wants to play, and we're all good with it." Rivers will be monitoring Lillard closely, especially since he has only practiced for three days since returning.
The Bucks will need Lillard to recapture his playoff form from last year, where he averaged 31.3 points in their first-round series against the Pacers. This time, with Giannis healthy, the pressure shifts to Lillard to find his rhythm quickly and contribute significantly. The Bucks will also need to tighten their defense after allowing Indiana to convert 18 turnovers into 24 points in Game 1.
For the Pacers, the strategy remains clear: maintain their fast pace and continue to exploit the Bucks' weaknesses. Haliburton is the engine of the offense, and with the versatility of Siakam, Myles Turner, and Obi Toppin, Indiana aims to prove that their playoff success last year was no fluke. They want to build on their Game 1 victory and take a commanding 2-0 series lead.
As the teams prepare for Game 2, the stakes are high for both sides. The Bucks must find a way to integrate Lillard into their offense without disrupting Antetokounmpo's flow. Meanwhile, the Pacers look to capitalize on their momentum and deliver another strong performance on their home court.
Fans eager to catch the action can tune in on NBA TV, with streaming options available through FuboTV, DirecTV Stream, and Sling TV. The game promises to be an exciting matchup as both teams vie for an early advantage in this best-of-seven series.
With Game 2 set to unfold, the Bucks are determined to show that they are not out of the fight yet, while the Pacers are poised to deliver another blow. Will Lillard’s return be enough to spark Milwaukee back to life? Or will Indiana continue their dominance and push the Bucks to the brink?
