The Indiana Pacers moved a step closer to ending the Milwaukee Bucks’ season for the second straight year, cruising to an easy 129–103 victory and taking a 3–1 series lead in the NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference First Round on April 28.
Milwaukee Bucks Top Performers:
Giannis Antetokounmpo 28 PTS | 15 REB | 6 AST | 56.0 FPS
Giannis’ scoring declined today after putting up at least 34 points and shooting 60% or better in the first three games of the series. However, with most of his shots coming from inside the arc and his strong free-throw numbers—averaging 8 makes on 11 attempts—he’s expected to continue putting up big points. He’s also averaged 14 rebounds and recorded 6 assists over his last three games. Despite his consistent performance, his team still fell behind 1–3 in the series as it shifted to Indiana. The Bucks have really struggled in road games in the playoffs, losing eight consecutive including five in Indiana. To make matters worse, they’ll have to fight their way back without their second-leading scorer, as Damian Lillard suffered a concerning injury in this game.
Kevin Porter Jr. 23 PTS | 5 REB | 6 AST | 42.0 FPS
KPJ provided solid all-around value in the first three games of the series but took on a much bigger role today after Lillard sustained a leg injury early in the game. He made the most of it, hitting five threes and recording his fifth 20-point game this month. Lillard has yet to undergo an MRI, but reports indicate that his injury could be severe. That said, KPJ should start for the remainder of the series and continue putting up valuable numbers.
Bobby Portis 14 PTS | 3 REB | 1 AST | 18.1 FPS
Portis had been one of the best rebounders in this series before this. Despite that, he stayed relevant on offense, delivering his third double-digit scoring game. He’s certainly capable of big performances like his 28-point performance in Game 2, and they’ll need that level of performance again if they want to stay in contention.
Brook Lopez 6 PTS | 1 STL | 1 BLK | 13.7 FPS
Lopez hasn’t been much of a factor in this series but can still provide a strong impact on both sides, with his three-point shooting and shot-blocking. With Lillard injured, the team will need someone to step up if they want to extend the series, making a breakout performance in Game 5 possible.
Gary Trent Jr. 6 PTS | 1 AST | 2 STL | 13.5 FPS
Trent was a difference-maker in their Game 3 win, erupting with a season-best performance of 37 points along with 9 three-pointers. He couldn’t keep it going today, but he should remain a key contributor in this series, especially with his three-point shooting and steals.
Indiana Pacers Top Performers:
Tyrese Haliburton 17 PTS | 8 REB | 15 AST | 47.1 FPS
Hali recorded his fourth straight double-digit assist game in the playoffs and currently leads the league in assists. He also complemented it with double-digit scoring, making him the first Pacer since Paul George to record a double-double in each of the first four playoff games. With the way he’s been playing, there’s no reason for him to become less impactful in Game 5.
Myles Turner 23 PTS | 5 REB | 4 BLK | 45.5 FPS
Turner’s offense rebounded from a 1-for-9 shooting in Game 3 to his series-best performance today. While his offense has been a big factor in this series, it’s on the defensive end where he has truly stood out, racking up 11 blocks in four games, leading all players in the Eastern Conference.
Andrew Nembhard 20 PTS | 3 REB | 2 AST | 28.6 FPS
Nembhard bounced back strong after putting up just 6 points in Game 3. He’s been a solid option offensively this series, shooting around the 60% mark in three games while also scoring at least 17 points and adding value in other areas.
TJ McConnell 15 PTS | 3 REB | 6 AST | 25.6 FPS
McConnell has provided value in rebounding and playmaking throughout the series despite inconsistent minutes. More impactful performances could be possible moving forward if he continues to see a bigger role.
Pascal Siakam 12 PTS | 3 REB | 4 AST | 23.6 FPS
Siakam started the series strong, scoring at least 24 points while contributing solid rebounding and defense in the first three games. He wasn’t as impactful today but stayed relevant with contributions in other areas. While these performances can happen with the team’s deep roster, Siakam is expected to bounce back with a stronger performance in Game 5.
Biggest Disappointment of the Game:
Kyle Kuzma 3 PTS | 1-6 FG | 1 AST
Kuz had been trending upward with modest contributions over his last two games, but his performance today was another major letdown. His inconsistency and very limited production make him a difficult option in this series.
