Pacers Lead Series, Prepare for Tough Game 2 Against Bucks

Following a dominant 117-98 Game 1 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, the Indiana Pacers are preparing for a tougher challenge in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle has emphasized to his team that winning consecutive games in a playoff series is a significant challenge, urging players to "expect hard" and brace for Milwaukee’s likely response. The Bucks, despite Giannis Antetokounmpo’s strong performance, struggled offensively in Game 1, with their supporting cast underperforming and poor three-point shooting contributing to the loss. Both teams are drawing lessons from last season, when Indiana rebounded from a Game 1 defeat to win Game 2 against Milwaukee, highlighting the unpredictability and momentum shifts of playoff basketball. Pacers players, including Tyrese Haliburton, acknowledge that Game 1 was just the beginning and are focused on handling the Bucks' anticipated adjustments. Defensive intensity remains a focal point for both squads as they prepare for Game 2.