NBA playoff betting watch: Pacers, Thunder, and Lakers headline April 23 slate

Posted By on April 23, 2025

As the 2025 NBA Playoffs continue to deliver drama and intensity, April 23 features three critical Round 1 matchups that offer a wealth of betting opportunities. From competitive point spreads to potential blowouts, here’s what to watch—and where the value may lie.

Indiana Pacers vs Milwaukee Bucks


Tip-off: 07:00 GMT
Milwaukee enters this matchup as a moderate favorite at 1.599 on the moneyline, while Indiana presents underdog value at 2.648. The point spread favors the Bucks at -4.5 (1.84), with the Pacers at +4.5 (1.96). The total is set at 228.5, with the over priced at 1.92 and the under at 1.88.

Milwaukee will rely on its playoff-tested core to control the pace, but Indiana’s uptempo offense and perimeter scoring could keep them in contention. This high-possession game may come down to key stops and rebounding.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs Memphis Grizzlies
Tip-off: 07:30 GMT
The largest spread of the day sees OKC as a commanding 1.099 favorite, with Memphis a heavy underdog at 8.75. The spread is Thunder -14.5 (1.904) and Grizzlies +14.5 (1.896). The total is also set at 228.5, with the over at 1.87 and the under at 1.93.

OKC’s offensive firepower and tempo make them dangerous early. However, if Memphis can limit mistakes and slow the game, they may find a path to covering the spread.

Los Angeles Lakers vs Minnesota Timberwolves
Tip-off: 10:00 GMT
In the most evenly matched contest of the day, the Lakers are slight 1.432 favorites while the Timberwolves come in at 3.33. The spread sits at Lakers -5.5 (1.9) and Wolves +5.5 (1.9). The total is 210.5—the day’s lowest—with both over and under at 1.9.

Expect a gritty, defensive battle with playoff implications. Half-court execution and clutch plays will likely decide the outcome, making the under an intriguing angle.

What to Watch on April 23

  • Most Competitive Game: Lakers vs Timberwolves, the day’s tightest line, could go down to the wire.

  • Largest Spread: Thunder vs Grizzlies at -14.5 is a big ask for OKC, but watch for a possible backdoor cover.

  • Best Value Bet: Pacers +4.5. Indiana’s pace and shooting could push Milwaukee throughout.

  • Totals Outlook: Two games are set at 228.5, but Lakers-Wolves stands out with a low 210.5 total, suggesting a slower, defensive tempo.

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