The first round of the NBA Playoffs are now well underway and there are some juicy matchups providing nonstop entertainment. Action continues on Wednesday with another three games to look forward to, headlined by the Lakers vs Timberwolves at 12:00pm AEST. We bring you our preview and best bet for that clash plus more below!
NBA Playoffs Betting Tips: Wednesday, April 23rd 2025
Milwaukee Bucks at Indiana Pacers (9:00am AEST)
The Indiana Pacers will look to build on their impressive Game 1 victory as they host the Milwaukee Bucks for Game 2 of their first-round playoff series. Indiana's 117–98 win in the opener showcased their depth and cohesion, with Pascal Siakam leading the charge and Tyrese Haliburton orchestrating the offense effectively. The Pacers' defensive intensity and transition play overwhelmed a Bucks team missing key contributors.
Milwaukee's struggles were compounded by the absence of Damian Lillard, sidelined due to a blood clot in his right calf. While Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered a valiant effort, the lack of support was evident. Kyle Kuzma's underwhelming performance, failing to register a single point, rebound, or assist in over 21 minutes, further highlighted the team's challenges.
As Game 2 approaches, the Pacers are poised to capitalise on their momentum and the Bucks' injury concerns. With a balanced attack and strong defensive play, Indiana is well-positioned to secure another victory and take a commanding 2–0 series lead.
Pacers -4
$1.87 (1.5 Units)
Memphis Grizzlies at OKC Thunder (9:30am AEST)
The Oklahoma City Thunder will look to extend their dominance over the Memphis Grizzlies in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series, following a historic 131–80 blowout in Game 1—the fifth-largest margin of victory in NBA playoff history and the largest ever in a series opener.
In the opener, the Thunder showcased their depth and defensive prowess. Aaron Wiggins led with 21 points off the bench, while Jalen Williams added 20 points, six assists, five rebounds, three steals, and a block, finishing with a +44 plus-minus in just 26 minutes. Despite Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scoring only 15 points—below his regular-season average—Oklahoma City's balanced attack overwhelmed Memphis. The Thunder forced 24 turnovers, leading to 27 fast-break points, and outscored the Grizzlies in the paint and in transition.
The Grizzlies, on the other hand, struggled offensively, shooting just 34.4% from the field and 17.6% from three-point range. Stars Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. combined for 8-of-30 shooting. coach Tuomas Iisalo acknowledged the team's poor performance and vowed adjustments for Game 2.
Given the Thunder's recent form and the Grizzlies' struggles, Oklahoma City is poised to secure another convincing victory in Game 2, taking a commanding 2–0 series lead as the series shifts to Memphis.
Thunder -14.5
$1.92 (1 Unit)
Minnesota Timberwolves at Los Angeles Lakers (12:00pm AEST)
After a humbling 117–95 defeat in Game 1, the Los Angeles Lakers are determined to respond as they host the Minnesota Timberwolves for Game 2 of their first-round playoff series. Despite Luka Doncic’s impressive 37-point performance in his Lakers playoff debut, the team struggled with cohesion and defensive intensity, particularly in the second half. LeBron James contributed 19 points, but the Lakers were outmatched in rebounding and perimeter defence, allowing the Timberwolves to exploit their weaknesses.
The Timberwolves, led by Anthony Edwards' near triple-double and Jaden McDaniels' 25 points, showcased their depth and physicality, dominating the Lakers in nearly every statistical category. However, the Lakers view this setback as a wake-up call. Austin Reaves emphasized the need for full preparation and consistent effort, acknowledging the team's underwhelming performance.
In Game 2, expect the Lakers to make strategic adjustments, focusing on enhancing their defensive schemes and increasing physicality to counter Minnesota's aggression. With the combined leadership of Doncic and James, and a renewed sense of urgency, the Lakers are poised to bounce back, aiming to even the series before heading to Minnesota.
Lakers -5.5
$1.90 (2 Units)
