As the 2025 NBA Playoffs heat up, Tuesday night brings with it a trio of compelling matchups that could significantly shape the direction of each series. With two teams looking to extend their early dominance and another hoping to recover from a historic defeat, all eyes will be on the hardwood as the intensity ramps up.
Indiana and Oklahoma City both delivered crushing wins in their respective Game 1 encounters, setting the tone with confidence and control. But their opponents, Milwaukee and Memphis, will be determined to turn the tide, especially with potential lineup changes and a renewed sense of urgency.
Meanwhile, out west, Minnesota’s commanding victory over the Lakers has given them a dream start — but anyone who’s followed the NBA long enough knows that momentum can shift in a flash, especially when LeBron James is on the other side of the floor.
Milwaukee Bucks at Indiana Pacers
Match Info
🗓 Tuesday 22nd April 2025, 19:00 EST / 00:00 BST (23 April)
📍 Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, USA
Milwaukee Bucks
The Bucks head into Game 2 under a cloud of pressure after a humbling defeat in the opener. Despite Giannis Antetokounmpo’s typically Herculean 36-point, 12-rebound effort, the rest of the roster failed to fire, leaving Milwaukee chasing shadows for much of the game. They were particularly poor from beyond the arc, shooting just 24.3%, and with no other starters in double figures, it was a lopsided showing. The return of Damian Lillard, who is now listed as questionable after progressing in recovery, could provide the spark they desperately need. With Lillard back on the court, the Bucks could regain their offensive rhythm and offer Giannis the support he needs to break down Indiana’s sturdy defence.
Indiana Pacers
Indiana came out with fire and poise in Game 1, overwhelming Milwaukee with clinical shooting and relentless pace. Pascal Siakam’s 25 points led the charge, while Myles Turner and Andrew Nembhard provided strong support in a performance that rarely saw them challenged. The Pacers’ defence was particularly impressive, smothering the Bucks’ backcourt and limiting scoring opportunities across the board. Indiana has now won 16 of their last 19 games at home and will be eager to capitalise on that dominance with another statement win before the series shifts.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Indiana Pacers to win
With momentum firmly on their side and Milwaukee still potentially without Lillard, the Pacers should have the edge again on home court. Their cohesion, depth, and shooting efficiency make them favourites to extend the series lead.
America Bet Score Prediction
Milwaukee 104 – 113 Indiana
Expect Milwaukee to respond with more fight, especially if Lillard suits up, but Indiana’s balance and home form should carry them through.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Indiana Pacers to win
- Pascal Siakam over 22.5 points
- Giannis Antetokounmpo over 34.5 points
- Total points over 216.5
- Myles Turner over 1.5 blocks
- Damian Lillard to score 20+ points (if active)
- Indiana Pacers -5.5 point spread
- Bucks under 35.5% from 3-point range
- Andrew Nembhard over 4.5 assists
- First half total points over 108.5
Memphis Grizzlies at Oklahoma City Thunder
Match Info
🗓 Tuesday 22nd April 2025, 19:30 EST / 00:30 BST (23 April)
📍 Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, USA
Memphis Grizzlies
Game 1 was a nightmare for Memphis. A 51-point defeat marked one of the worst playoff losses in league history, and they’ll need to regroup quickly to avoid falling into a deeper hole. Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. were both off the pace, combining for just 8-of-30 shooting. The Grizzlies’ starters collectively struggled, and the defensive lapses were glaring. Coach Tuomas Iisalo has urged his team to use the embarrassment as fuel, but unless their shooting and composure improve dramatically, another long night could be on the cards.
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder were ruthless in the opener, posting 131 points and barely needing MVP frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to hit top gear. Their defensive intensity suffocated Memphis, and their offensive balance — even with SGA scoring only 15 — suggests that this team has plenty in the tank. Coach Mark Daigneault is wary of complacency, but if Oklahoma City brings the same focus and discipline, they’ll be almost impossible to beat at home. With the best defensive record in the league this season, the Thunder are well-positioned to repeat their dominance.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Oklahoma City Thunder to win
Even with a Grizzlies bounce-back effort, the Thunder are too deep, too sharp, and too defensively sound to let this one slip.
America Bet Score Prediction
Memphis 96 – 121 Oklahoma City
A tighter contest than Game 1 is likely, but Memphis still doesn’t have the tools to slow down OKC’s machine-like offence.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Oklahoma City Thunder to win
- Total points under 220.5
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander over 23.5 points
- Ja Morant under 25.5 points
- Jaren Jackson Jr. over 1.5 blocks
- Thunder to cover -14.5 spread
- First quarter total points under 54.5
- OKC to score over 115.5 points
- Grizzlies to shoot under 42.5% from the field
- Chet Holmgren over 8.5 rebounds
Minnesota Timberwolves at Los Angeles Lakers
Match Info
🗓 Tuesday 22nd April 2025, 22:00 EST / 03:00 BST (23 April)
📍 Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, USA
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves made a big statement with a commanding win in Game 1. Led by Jaden McDaniels’ near-perfect shooting and Anthony Edwards’ all-round brilliance, Minnesota controlled the tempo and physically outmatched the Lakers. Julius Randle’s return has added stability, and their 17-4 finish to the regular season now feels like a genuine launchpad for a deep playoff run. With confidence high and the chance to take a 2-0 lead back home, the Timberwolves will be fired up to maintain their momentum.
Los Angeles Lakers
Despite Luka Doncic’s early fireworks, the Lakers faded badly after the first quarter and struggled to match Minnesota’s aggression. LeBron James had a quiet night by his standards, and the supporting cast didn’t provide enough punch to help claw back the deficit. There’s belief in the locker room that adjustments can be made — especially on the physical front — but the Lakers will need to be far more disciplined and sharper in transition if they’re to square the series.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Minnesota Timberwolves to win
If Minnesota brings the same energy and physicality, the Lakers may again struggle to keep up. The Wolves are rolling and should be able to snatch another win in LA.
America Bet Score Prediction
Minnesota 111 – 107 Los Angeles Lakers
A closer affair, but Minnesota’s recent form and balance on both ends of the court make them slight favourites to edge it.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Minnesota Timberwolves to win
- Anthony Edwards over 24.5 points
- LeBron James over 7.5 assists
- Jaden McDaniels over 14.5 points
- Total points over 216.5
- Timberwolves +1.5 spread
- Luka Doncic under 35.5 points
- Julius Randle over 16.5 points
- Lakers to score under 110.5 points
- Timberwolves to win 1st half
