The Indiana Pacers and Cleveland Cavaliers face off in game two of their Eastern Conference semifinal series today, Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Rocket Arena. After a game one upset where the Pacers stunned the top-seeded Cavaliers 121-112, the pressure is on Cleveland to respond. This high-stakes matchup promises fast-paced action, with both teams showcasing elite offenses. Here’s a breakdown of the storylines, odds, picks, and how to watch and bet on this pivotal game two.

 

 

Indiana Pacers: Haliburton’s Playoff Evolution

The Pacers are riding high after Tyrese Haliburton’s masterful Game 1 performance, where his go-ahead 3-pointer sparked a late surge to steal home-court advantage. Indiana’s high-octane offense, which put up 121 points in game one, also averaged 117.4 points in the regular season.

They were simply too much for Cleveland despite the fact that the Cavaliers have the highest scoring offense in the regular season, with 121.9 points. Haliburton’s playmaking (11.8 assists per game in the 2025 playoffs) and Pascal Siakam’s versatility have made the Pacers a tough matchup. 

Although the Pacers are a run-n-gun, fast paced, high percentage field goal team, they relied on other aspects of their offense for game one. They made 19 three point field goals, ten more than the Cavaliers and went 52% from deep, showing they can exploit Cleveland’s 16th-ranked 3-point defense. The question is whether Indiana can sustain this intensity on the road against a desperate Cavaliers squad.

Cleveland Cavaliers: Bouncing Back at Home

The Cavaliers, who swept Miami in the first round with a +122 point differential, were not ready for game one. Proving that long rest is not always beneficial, just ask the Boston Celtics. Despite their depth, with seven players averaging double-digit scoring in the playoffs, Cleveland struggled to contain Indiana’s perimeter attack. 

Donovan Mitchell (23.8 PPG in the postseason) needs to regain his game one and two form (30 points each) against Miami, while Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen must dominate the paint to slow Indiana’s transition game. Cleveland’s top ranked offense is not in question but their defense, which allowed 121 points in game one, needs tightening. With home-court pride on the line, expect a more focused Cavs effort.

 

 

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

  • Spread: Cavaliers -9.0 (-108), Pacers +9.0 (-112)
  • Moneyline: Cavaliers -410, Pacers +320
  • Over/Under: 229.5 points (-110)
  • Source: DraftKings Sportsbook, odds as of May 5, 2025

The spread has moved to -9.- for Cleveland after opening at -9, reflecting confidence in the Cavaliers ability to play better. The total is once again set at a high 229.5 points, as both teams’ offenses exploded for 233 combined points. Cleveland is a heavy favorite to even the series, but Indiana has owned the Cavaliers this season winning four of their five matches.

Pacers vs. Cavaliers Player Prop Pick: Indiana +9.0 (-108 on Draftkings Sportsbook)

As mentioned the Pacers have won four of the five matches against the Cavaliers this season, which account for over 1/6th of their losses. This is a division rivalry, these two know each other well; the players, the staff, the local announcers, and the fans. As great as the Cavaliers have been this season, they are playing against a team that has their number. 

Max Strus is the starting Cavalier that has played in a conference finals, and pressure is mounting once again for Donovan Mitchell. Pressure he does not excel in, and without Darius Garland, the pressure is mounting. Pressure makes diamonds or bust pipes and this series will depend on how Mitchell responds to pressure.

The Cavaliers have a great team, but winning by 10 points seems like a stretch. Especially against a team that is rolling. Put a unit for the Pacers to cover the spread today.

 

 

How To Watch Pacers vs. Cavaliers on TNT Today

  • Date: May 6, 2025
  • Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
  • Location: Rocket Arena, Cleveland, OH
  • TV: TNT
  • Streaming: Max, FuboTV (free trial available)
  • Source:

Fans can catch the action live on TNT or stream via Max or FuboTV. Check local listings for channel availability. For international viewers or those wanting additional coverage, NBA League Pass offers live and on-demand access.

 

 

Pacers vs. Cavaliers Injury Report & Starting Lineup

Injury Report

  • Pacers: No significant injuries reported.
  • Cavaliers: Evan Mobley (questionable, ankle), De’Andre Hunter (questionable, thumb), Darius Garland (questionable, toe).

Projected Starting Lineups

Cleveland’s injury concerns with Mobley and Hunter could impact their defensive versatility, but Garland’s presence is desperately missed. Indiana’s clean bill of health gives them lineup flexibility and supports the best bet of Indiana covering the spread.

 

 

How To Bet On Pacers vs. Cavaliers at DraftKings Sportsbook & Claim Your $150 Bonus

  • Sign Up: Visit DraftKings Sportsbook and create an account if you’re a new user.
  • Deposit: Make a minimum deposit of $10.
  • Place a Bet: Bet at least $5 on any Pacers vs. Cavaliers market (spread, moneyline, total, or player props).
  • Claim Bonus: Win or lose, you’ll receive six $25 bonus bets instantly, totaling $150.
  • Terms: Bonus bets expire in 7 days. Must be 21+, located in a state where DraftKings is licensed. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

New users can take advantage of DraftKings’ promo to bet on game two, and explore other NBA playoff markets. Check DraftKings for live betting options during the game, like updated spreads or player props.

 

 

Final Prediction

The Cavaliers are likely to bounce back at home, leveraging their depth and 3-point shooting to even the series. However, Indiana’s offense, led by Haliburton, should keep the game within striking distance. Pick: Pacers +9.5 (-110) to cover the spread, and expect a high-scoring affair with the Over 229.5 (-110) as both teams push the pace.

Note: Odds and injury statuses are subject to change. Always check the latest updates on DraftKings or other sportsbooks before placing bets. For responsible gambling resources, call 1-800-GAMBLER.

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