The stage is set for an electrifying matchup as the Cleveland Cavaliers face off against the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the 2025 NBA playoffs. The top-seeded Cavaliers, who dominated the Eastern Conference during the regular season, are eager to reach the Conference Finals for the first time since 2018. Meanwhile, the fourth-seeded Pacers are looking to return to the Conference Finals for the second consecutive year. Game 1 is scheduled for Sunday evening, May 4, 2025, at 6 p.m. ET at Rocket Arena in Cleveland.
The Cavaliers made a statement in the first round, sweeping the Miami Heat with a staggering average margin of victory of 30.5 points per game. They outscored Miami by a total of 122 points over the four-game series. Cleveland showcased its offensive prowess, averaging 126 points per game and demonstrating depth with seven players averaging in double figures for scoring during that series.
On the other hand, the Pacers advanced to this round by defeating the Milwaukee Bucks in five games, knocking them out of the playoffs for the second straight year. Tyrese Haliburton emerged as a key player for Indiana, averaging 17.6 points and 11.6 assists per game in the first round. His game-winning layup in a thrilling Game 5 comeback showcased his clutch ability and leadership on the court.
As the series begins, the Cavaliers are facing a significant challenge with the absence of star guard Darius Garland, who has been ruled out for Game 1 due to a toe injury sustained during the previous series against Miami. Garland, who averaged 20.6 points, 2.9 rebounds, 6.7 assists, and 1.2 steals over 75 games this season, was initially listed as questionable but ultimately did not make the lineup. His absence could impact Cleveland's offensive strategy, as head coach Kenny Atkinson expressed concern about Garland's status leading up to the game.
“There’s some concern there,” Atkinson said. “I could see it go either way.” Unfortunately for the Cavaliers, it went the wrong way, leaving them without one of their key playmakers as they face a confident Pacers team.
The Cavaliers hold home-court advantage in this series, which historically could swing momentum in their favor. However, the Pacers have had success against Cleveland this season, winning three out of four matchups during the regular season. This has infused the Pacers with confidence as they aim to steal a game on the road in the series opener.
“Game 1 of a series is one of the best times to steal a road game,” noted a source close to the Pacers. The team is keen to set the tone early and capitalize on any weaknesses in the Cavaliers' lineup.
The schedule for the series is as follows:
- Game 1: Sunday, May 4, 2025, at 6 p.m. ET - Cavaliers vs. Pacers
- Game 2: Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 7 p.m. ET - Cavaliers vs. Pacers
- Game 3: Friday, May 9, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET - Pacers vs. Cavaliers
- Game 4: Sunday, May 11, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET - Pacers vs. Cavaliers
- Game 5: Tuesday, May 13, 2025, - Cavaliers vs. Pacers (Time/TV TBD)
- Game 6: Thursday, May 15, 2025, - Pacers vs. Cavaliers (Time/TV TBD)
- Game 7: Sunday, May 18, 2025, - Cavaliers vs. Pacers (Time/TV TBD)
In terms of betting odds, the Cavaliers are favored to win Game 1 by 8 points, with an over/under set at 229. The series odds also favor Cleveland at -550, while Indiana sits at +410, reflecting the Cavaliers' status as the top seed in the playoffs.
As the game approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the Cavaliers will adjust without Garland and whether the Pacers can leverage their momentum from the first round. The excitement is palpable as both teams prepare to clash in what promises to be a thrilling series.
The Cleveland Cavaliers and Indiana Pacers are ready to battle it out in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. With both teams bringing their best to the court, basketball fans can expect a high-stakes contest filled with intensity and drama. Tune in as the action unfolds and witness who will take the first step towards the Conference Finals.
