The Milwaukee Bucks, the third seed in the Eastern Conference, are currently trailing the Indiana Pacers 2-1 in their first-round playoff series. In a crucial Game 4 matchup, the Bucks will be missing their two best players, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. Antetokounmpo is out with a calf strain, while Lillard will be sitting due to an Achilles injury suffered in Game 3. This news has caused the Bucks’ line to fall to +10 in the betting odds, highlighting the significant impact of their absence.
The Bucks’ acquisition of Lillard was expected to boost their postseason prospects and return them to title contention after two disappointing playoff finishes. However, the team has faced challenges throughout the season, with a defensive switch affecting their offensive performance. Head coach Adrian Griffin’s decision to start Malik Beasley further complicated Lillard’s defensive vulnerabilities. Following Griffin’s dismissal and Doc Rivers taking over, the team focused on improving their defense, with Patrick Beverley joining Lillard in the starting lineup. Despite these changes, the Bucks finished the season with a 49-33 record and faced a tough first-round matchup against the Pacers.
Indiana has dominated the Bucks in the 2024-25 season, finishing with a 4-1 head-to-head record. The absence of Antetokounmpo appeared to diminish Milwaukee’s chances of advancing in the playoffs. Lillard took on the responsibility of carrying the team, reminiscent of his efforts in the 2019 postseason. In the first three games of the series, Lillard averaged 32.3 points per game on impressive shooting percentages, along with contributions in assists, rebounds, and steals. With Lillard and Antetokounmpo both sidelined for Game 4, the Bucks will heavily rely on Khris Middleton to generate offense against a young and athletic Pacers team.
The Bucks’ reliance on Middleton in the absence of their star players highlights the challenges they face in the crucial Game 4 matchup. Despite the odds stacked against them, Milwaukee will need to demonstrate resilience and determination to overcome the Pacers and stay alive in the series. The absence of Antetokounmpo and Lillard presents an opportunity for other players on the Bucks roster to step up and make significant contributions. As the game tips off in Indianapolis, all eyes will be on Middleton and the rest of the team to see if they can defy expectations and secure a much-needed victory to tie the series.
