NBA Playoff Preview: Bucks VS Pacers

The NBA's money-making sham, which they label a "Play-In Tournament," has ended, and it is time for the real ball to begin. Don't get me wrong, I watched every one of the play-in games but let's call a spade a spade and recognize it's all an attempt to force out more advertisement money and for teams like the Bulls or the Bulls of the west (Kings) to pretend they had a semi-successful season. Let's consider renaming it the the Trae Young showcase since that's the most air time he and the Hawks have had since their surprising run to the Eastern Conference finals in 2021. With only 2 of the 6 games being captivating, the real ball watchers rejoice today when the NBA Playoffs get underway.

Milwaukee Bucks VS Indiana Pacers

Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks head into a place where in 49 other states it's just basketball, to take on a very surprising Indiana Pacers lead by Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner. I say surprising because at the deadline, Turner seemed to be on the verge of being shipped out but with no team presenting a fair offer he stuck around and helped the Pacers go 20-9 post all star break and secured the 4th seed in the Eastern Conference. The Pacers play at a fast pace and shoot the ball just about as efficient as anyone in the league coming in at top 5 in fastbreak points, assists, FG%, FGM, and shooting percentage. They are also 2nd in the league in 4th quarter scoring, meaning they get hot at the right time and that's what you want in a playoff team.

The Bucks on the other hand, rank 27th in the league in fastbreak points and prioritize possessions and offensive efficiency. They shoot the 3 ball at the highest clip in the NBA but rank a lowly 25th in the league pertaining to field goals attempted. In a 4/5 matchup I'm going to tip my hand to the best player on the court, the Greek Freak. Now more than ever the pressure is on Giannis to make a run at this thing and if they're able to get a healthy Damian Lillard back who's dealing with blood clots issues, for a playoff push you cant count this team out.

I've got the Bucks in 6 and I see them making a statement in game 1 lead by The Greek Freak himself

Parlay: Giannis 50+ PRA, Bobby Portis 24+ PRA, Siakam 30+ PRA, Bucks +6 (+575 @DKSportsbook)

Clippers VS Nuggets preview out next. Stay tuned.