The 2025 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference semifinals kick off with a thrilling matchup between the No. 4 seed Indiana Pacers and the No. 1 seed Cleveland Cavaliers today Sunday, May 4, at Rocket Arena. Game one airing on TNT, pits a high-octane Pacers offense against a Cavaliers squad that dominated the regular season with 64 wins and a suffocating defense. With both teams coming off strong first-round performances, here’s a deep dive into the storylines, odds, betting picks, and everything you need to know to bet on this exciting playoff opener.

 

 

 

Indiana Pacers: Tyrese Haliburton’s Playoff Redemption Arc

The Indiana Pacers (50-32) are riding high after dispatching the Milwaukee Bucks in five games in the first round, showcasing their explosive offense led by All-Star Tyrese Haliburton. Indiana averaged 117.4 points per game in the regular season, eighth-best in the league, and their transition game has been a nightmare for opponents.

Haliburton, who struggled with his three-point shooting against Milwaukee, is the key to unlocking Cleveland’s elite defense. The Pacers’ 9-2 playoff record at home since last season proves they can compete with the best, but road games like this one will test their mettle. Indiana’s ability to maintain their fast-paced style and exploit Cleveland’s occasional half-court lapses will define their chances in game one. Interestingly, the Pacers won three of four regular-season matchups against the Cavaliers, giving them confidence they can steal a game on the road.

 

 

 

Cleveland Cavaliers: Defensive Dominance Meets Offensive Firepower

The Cleveland Cavaliers (64-18) enter as the East’s top seed, fresh off a first-round sweep of the Miami Heat where they outscored their opponents by an average of 30.5 points per game. Led by Donovan Mitchell’s scoring prowess and Evan Mobley, the 2025 Defensive Player of the Year, the Cavaliers boast the NBA’s best offensive efficiency (121 points per 100 possessions) and the eighth-rated defense. 

Under new coach Kenny Atkinson, Cleveland’s motion-based attack has unlocked their potential, while their frontcourt duo of Mobley and Jarrett Allen stifles opponents in the paint. However, questions linger about point guard Darius Garland’s toe injury, which could impact their backcourt depth. The Cavs’ ability to slow Indiana’s transition game and capitalize on their home-court advantage will be critical in setting the tone for the series. They know their division rival well, and vice versa.
 

 

 

Pacers vs. Cavaliers Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

Here are the latest odds for game one, courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook:

  • Spread: Cavaliers -8.0 (-108) | Pacers +8.0 (-112)
  • Moneyline: Cavaliers -340 | Pacers +275
  • Total (Over/Under): 229 (-110 both sides)
  • Series Odds: Cavaliers -550 | Pacers +410
  • Total Games O/U: 5.5 games (-115 for Over, -105 for Under)

The Cavaliers are heavy favorites to take game one at home, reflecting their dominant regular season and first-round performance. The 8.0 point spread suggests oddsmakers expect Cleveland to control the game, but Indiana’s success against the Cavs in the regular season could keep it closer. The total of 229 points is moderate, given Indiana’s high-scoring tendencies and Cleveland’s ability to dictate pace with their defense.

 

 

 

Pacers vs. Cavaliers Best Bet: Over 5.5 Games in Series (-115 on FanDuel Sportsbook)

While game one leans toward Cleveland due to their home dominance (36 - 7 at home including the playoffs), the series bet offers better value. The Pacers’ ability to push the pace and their regular-season success against the Cavs (3-1) suggest they can steal at least two games. 

Indiana’s transition offense, which ranks in the 81st percentile for points per possession, could exploit Cleveland’s defense if Garland’s injury limits their backcourt speed. Taking over 5.5 games in the series at -115 odds on FanDuel is a smart play, as this matchup is likely to extend to at least six games, offering competitive basketball and betting opportunities throughout.

 

 


How To Watch Pacers vs. Cavaliers on TNT Today

  • Date: Sunday, May 4, 2025
  • Time: 6:00 PM ET
  • Channel: TNT
  • Streaming: Available on the TNT app, NBA League Pass, or services like FuboTV, YouTube TV, and Hulu + Live TV
  • Location: Rocket Arena, Cleveland, OH

Fans can tune into TNT for live coverage, with pregame analysis and expert commentary. Streaming options are plentiful, but ensure your service includes TNT to catch every moment of this playoff showdown.

 

 

 

Pacers vs. Cavaliers Injury Report & Starting Lineup

Injury Report:

  • Pacers: No significant injuries reported. 
  • Cavaliers: Darius Garland (toe) is questionable for game one, with his status potentially impacting Cleveland’s backcourt. No other major injuries reported.

Projected Starting Lineups:

Check for last-minute updates closer to tip-off, as Garland’s status could shift betting lines and game dynamics.

 

 

 

How To Bet On Pacers vs. Cavaliers at FanDuel Sportsbook & Claim Your $200 Bonus

Betting on the Pacers vs. Cavaliers is easy with FanDuel Sportsbook, and new users can claim a $200 bonus in bonus bets. Here’s how:

  • Sign Up: Visit FanDuel Sportsbook via their website or app and click “Join Now.”
  • Deposit: Make a minimum deposit of $10.
  • Place Your First Bet: Wager at least $5 on any Pacers vs. Cavaliers market (e.g., spread, moneyline, total, or player props).

Claim Your Bonus: If your first $5+ bet wins, you’ll receive $200 in bonus bets, delivered within 72 hours. Bonus bets expire seven days after issuance.

This game one matchup promises fireworks, with Indiana’s up-tempo attack clashing against Cleveland’s defensive juggernaut. Whether you’re backing the Cavaliers to dominate at home or the Pacers to keep it close, use the odds, picks, and betting tips above to make informed wagers. Tune into TNT on May 4 and get ready for an electrifying start to this Eastern Conference semifinal series!