In the first-round playoff series, the Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers will renew their rivalry. All-Star guard Damian Lillard, who has been out due to deep vein thrombosis, is progressing well and could potentially return during the series, providing a significant offensive boost for the Bucks, alongside forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Bucks finished the regular season with an eight-game winning streak, while the Pacers posted the NBA's fourth-best record since Jan. 1, led by point guard Tyrese Haliburton.
Milwaukee will aim to slow down the Pacers in transition and disrupt Haliburton to secure a victory, with a potential Lillard return enhancing their chances. Meanwhile, the Pacers need to address their rebounding deficiencies and prevent second-chance points for the Bucks to avoid an early exit in the playoffs. The Bucks won three out of the four meetings in the season series.