Bucks Look to Even Series Against Pacers in Game 4

Milwaukee, Wisconsin – The Milwaukee Bucks will have a chance to even their first-round NBA playoff series against the Indiana Pacers on Sunday night at Fiserv Forum. With an opportunity to close the series gap to 2-1, the Bucks aim to bounce back after losing Game 1, 117-98.

Game 4 is set to tip off at 8:30 p.m. and will be broadcast nationally on TNT and locally on FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin. The Bucks are currently favored by 3.5 points. The over/under is set at 227.5 points, according to BetMGM.

The Bucks are entering Game 4 following a tumultuous Game 3 where guard Damian Lillard sustained a left leg injury in the first quarter. His absence notably drained the team’s energy as they fell behind by as many as 12 points. However, A.J. Green and Kevin Porter Jr. provided some relief, hitting multiple three-pointers from the bench.

The Pacers, meanwhile, will be without forward Bennedict Mathurin, who has been ruled out for Game 4 due to an abdominal injury sustained in Game 3. His absence could impact Indiana’s bench depth.

Lillard has worked his way back from a serious health scare that sidelined him earlier this season. After battling blood clots, he has not appeared on the injury report since returning in Game 2. He expressed his eagerness to contribute, having undergone extensive rehabilitation to ensure he could return for the playoffs.

“I wanted to get up and down the court a little more, do some bumping, get over some screens and let my body get used to it,” Lillard stated, emphasizing his focus on acclimating back into play. “It’s better to do early in the series than later.”

Bucks coach Doc Rivers acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Lillard’s return and the potential risks involved. “When you hear blood clot, the last thing you think is him playing again,” Rivers noted. “Dame wants to play, and we’re all good with it.”

After a disappointing performance in Game 1, where four starters combined for just 14 points, the Bucks are counting on Lillard’s offensive prowess to shift the momentum in the series. In the regular season, Lillard averaged 18.3 points, 9.3 assists, and 5.5 rebounds against the Pacers.

Giannis Antetokounmpo expressed support for Lillard’s return, stating, “Happy for him, like that he’s healthy… he is one of the best players still in the league.” The Bucks hope Lillard can provide the spark they need.

As the series continues, both teams prepare for an intense matchup that could set the tone for the rest of the playoffs. The Bucks look to capitalize on their home-court advantage while the Pacers aim to maintain their lead.