As the NBA playoffs gather momentum, Sunday’s slate of fixtures on 4 May 2025 promises high-stakes drama, elite-level basketball, and critical turning points in both the Eastern and Western Conference matchups. From seasoned veterans battling for legacy to young upstarts redefining expectations, fans and punters alike are in for a thrilling night of postseason action.
Two major matchups headline this pivotal Sunday: Indiana at Cleveland kicks off the Eastern Conference second-round showdown, while a blockbuster Game 7 between Golden State and Houston could determine the fate of an entire campaign. Whether it’s playoff experience or rising momentum, every edge counts — and we’ve got all the analysis, predictions, and betting insights covered for you.
Indiana @ Cleveland
Match Info
- NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs – Round 2, Game 1
- Sunday 4 May 2025, 18:00 EST / 23:00 BST
- Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
Indiana Pacers
The Indiana Pacers step confidently into the second round after a competitive regular-season series against Cleveland, taking three out of four matchups. However, those results must be taken with a pinch of salt — All-Star Tyrese Haliburton featured only briefly across two of those contests, and Indiana was missing key pieces in the final showdown. Nonetheless, Indiana arrives largely healthy, with the exception of long-term absentee Isaiah Jackson. The Pacers have proven they can dictate pace and rebound effectively, averaging nearly 49 boards per game against Cleveland. Yet, their 3-point shooting has been inconsistent — a factor they’ll be keen to correct if they aim to outgun the top-seeded Cavaliers on their own court.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland may have fallen short in the regular season series against Indiana, but they return with full playoff focus and key players recharged. Donovan Mitchell, one of the league’s premier scoring guards, averaged 24 points both in the regular season and during Cleveland’s first-round sweep of Miami. His presence alone shifts the dynamic. However, the status of Darius Garland remains up in the air due to a lingering toe injury — and his absence could reduce the Cavs’ offensive versatility. Despite this, Cleveland’s depth, home-court advantage, and defensive pedigree should offer them the confidence to neutralise Indiana’s perimeter threats and maintain control in the paint.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Cleveland Cavaliers to win
Cleveland’s experience, home-court advantage, and Donovan Mitchell’s consistent form tilt the balance in their favour. Indiana will challenge them with pace and rebounding, but unless their shooting improves markedly, the Cavaliers should edge this opener.
America Bet Score Prediction
Indiana 111 – 118 Cleveland
Expect a high-scoring affair with spurts of tempo from Indiana, but the Cavs’ closing ability, particularly in tight fourth quarters, could give them the decisive edge.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Cleveland Cavaliers to win
- Over 227.5 total points
- Donovan Mitchell over 25.5 points
- Tyrese Haliburton over 8.5 assists
- Evan Mobley over 10.5 rebounds
- First Quarter Winner: Indiana Pacers
- Total 3-Pointers Made Over 25.5
- Cleveland -4.5 Handicap
- Both Teams to Score 55+ First Half Points
- Haliburton to record a Double-Double
Golden State @ Houston
Match Info
- NBA Western Conference Playoffs – Round 1, Game 7
- Sunday 4 May 2025, 20:30 EST / 01:30 BST (5 May)
- Toyota Center, Houston, Texas, USA
Golden State Warriors
Golden State’s rich playoff pedigree has carried them through countless postseason battles, but their mettle will face a defining test in Houston. After securing early series control, the Warriors have stumbled, particularly in the closing stretches of Games 5 and 6. Their Game 6 collapse — marked by a stunning 13 consecutive missed shots in the fourth quarter — was uncharacteristic of a team led by Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Steve Kerr’s side must rediscover their rhythm, discipline, and emotional control. Their backs are against the wall, but few teams handle Game 7 pressure like Golden State. With championship DNA in abundance, this team can never be counted out — especially with Curry’s unmatched scoring threat.
Houston Rockets
The Rockets have turned perceived inexperience into fearless execution. After a nervy start to the series, their Game 6 victory — a commanding 115-107 result — was a coming-of-age moment. Fred VanVleet has become the veteran anchor this young core needed, and his leadership alongside defensive stalwarts like Dillon Brooks has galvanised Houston’s confidence. The Rockets’ ability to impose their physicality and maintain defensive awareness has shifted the series momentum. Game 7 will be their biggest test yet — but in front of a roaring home crowd and brimming with belief, Houston will aim to dethrone the dynasty.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Houston Rockets to win
Momentum is powerful in the playoffs, and Houston has it. Their young core is stepping up under pressure, and Golden State’s recent struggles in clutch moments suggest that the tide has turned.
America Bet Score Prediction
Golden State 104 – 112 Houston
A tightly contested battle, but Houston’s defensive resilience and fourth-quarter composure should carry them over the finish line in front of their fans.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Houston Rockets to win
- Under 222.5 total points
- Fred VanVleet over 21.5 points
- Stephen Curry over 3.5 3-pointers made
- Jalen Green to score 15+ points
- First Half Winner: Houston Rockets
- Houston +2.5 Handicap
- Dillon Brooks over 1.5 steals
- Curry under 30.5 total points
- Game to be decided by 6-10 points margin
