Pacers vs Cavaliers Prediction, Picks, and Odds for NBA Playoffs Game 1

And just like that, we’re on to round two of the 2025 NBA Playoffs. The Indiana Pacers barely broke a sweat in dusting off Milwaukee, but now comes the real test: the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers. The NBA odds say the Cavaliers take this outright, but Indiana already beat them twice in the regular season.
Can the underdog Pacers pull another fast one, or is Cleveland set for revenge on its own floor? Let’s break it down and see which team is going to improve its NBA Finals odds with a win.

Pacers vs Cavaliers NBA Playoffs Prediction

Here’s the deal: Indiana had its way with Milwaukee in the first round, but don’t expect a repeat. Yes, the Pacers’ perimeter shooting has been solid, but now they’re facing a Cleveland team that not only drains nearly 20 3-pointers a game, but actually plays defense also. With that in mind, I see the Cavs’ defense icing Indiana’s shooters and finding a way to force the ball out of guard Tyrese Haliburton’s hands.
Cavaliers 122, Pacers 112

Pacers vs Cavaliers Best Player Props Today

• Pacers G Andrew Nembhard Under 1.5 3-Pointers (-179)

Right off the tip, you can expect Cleveland’s defense to smother Indiana’s perimeter game, which is why I’m kicking off my NBA player props with guard Andrew Nembhard to stay under 1.5 triples. Sure, he gave Milwaukee problems, but against Cleveland this season? He’s been worse than Shaq at the charity stripe, hitting just 3-of-11 from deep. Like past matchups, I’m counting on the Cavs’ defense to bring the pressure and ice him from 3-point range.

• Cavaliers F Evan Mobley Over 9.5 Rebounds (-115)

The Pacers aren’t exactly a team you associate with rebounding, and that’s why I’m taking forward Evan Mobley to grab over 9.5 boards as one of my favorite NBA picks tonight. Sure, he’s not exactly a true paint presence, but rebounding is one thing he’s got locked down. And against Indiana this year? He’s averaging nearly 13 rebounds a night. Don’t overthink it. Back Mobley to scoop up rebounds like free samples at Costco.

• Pacers G T.J. McConnell Over 7.5 Points (-121)

Look, Cleveland’s defense will be glued to Haliburton, freeing up others to score – and lately, guard T.J. McConnell hasn’t been shy. Finishing up my NBA prop picks, I have the backup point guard to score over 7.5 points in Game 1.

TJ McConnell man🤣 https://t.co/0SB0P2ehkF pic.twitter.com/i91CetIwQ7

— HaliMuse (@hali_muse) April 23, 2025

Yes, McConnell usually looks to dish, but he’s been calling his own number more, and even dropped 18 points in his last game. With Indiana needing a spark, I see McConnell filling the void once again.

Bet On these Pacers vs Cavaliers Player Props Here

Pacers vs Cavaliers Moneyline Pick

Cleveland has the upper hand across the board, according to the latest NBA betting news, and while the Pacers won both previous meetings, that won’t be the case this time. With homecourt advantage and a little extra motivation after dropping two straight regular-season matchups, I’m expecting Cleveland to play aggressive and control both ends of the floor for the majority of the game. Ride the Cavaliers on the moneyline.
Bet on Cavaliers ML (-340)

Pacers vs Cavaliers Spread Pick

I’m sure an eight-point NBA spread doesn’t look all that comforting, but I’m all over it. I see the Cavs not only winning but also covering tonight. Sure, Indiana might have its moments – hitting some big shots and grabbing a few turnovers – but overall, it will fall well short in the offensive firepower category to break through Cleveland’s defense. The Pacers will score their points, but they’ll struggle playing keep up. Take Cavaliers minus the points.
Bet on Cavaliers (-8)

Pacers vs Cavaliers Over/Under Pick

While there’s no doubt Cleveland’s defense will look to tighten up on the Pacers’ guard play and limit fast-break opportunities, but I still see this game being a high-scoring contest and passing the 229-point mark. Whether you’re a fan of them or not, both teams pack a punch offensively, and you can bank on a fast-paced game, with shots being made on both ends. Bet online for the over.
Bet on Pacers vs. Cavaliers Over 229.5 (-110)

Pacers vs Cavaliers How To Watch

• Game: Indiana Pacers (0-0) vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (0-0)
• Date/Time: Sunday, May 4, 6:00 p.m. ET
• Location: Rocket Arena, Cleveland, OH
• Pacers vs Cavaliers Live Stream: NBA League Pass

Get the latest Pacers vs Cavaliers stats here.

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More Pacers vs Cavaliers NBA Picks and Best Bets Today

• Pacers vs Cavaliers NBA Playoffs Parlay Picks for Sunday, May 4

Odds and information are accurate at the time of writing. Please check with official sources for the latest updates before placing any bets.

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