The
Milwaukee Bucks are in a must-win situation as they face the
Indiana Pacers in Game 3 of their playoff series. Down 2-0, the Bucks need a spark to turn things around—and all eyes are on
Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Is Giannis Antetokounmpo playing tonight in Game 3? (April 25, 2025)
The good news for
Milwaukee Bucks fans is that
Giannis Antetokounmpo will suit up tonight. Despite the team’s struggles in the first two games, the Greek Freak has been dominant, dropping 34 points, 18 rebounds, and 7 assists in Game 2. His presence alone gives Milwaukee a fighting chance, but he can’t do it alone.
Milwaukee Bucks injury report for tonight’s game against the Indiana Pacers (April 25, 2025)
The injury report is mostly clean for Milwaukee, with only one player under scrutiny:
- Tyler Smith (Questionable) – His absence hasn’t heavily impacted the Bucks this season, so his status won’t drastically alter the rotation.
Milwaukee Bucks depth chart vs Indiana Pacers
Here’s how Milwaukee is expected to line up for Game 3:
Position
| Starter
| 2nd Unit
| 3rd Unit
|
---|
PG
| Damian Lillard
| Kevin Porter Jr.
| Ryan Rollins
|
SG
| Taurean Prince
| AJ Green
| Gary Trent Jr.
|
SF
| Kyle Kuzma
| Gary Trent Jr.
| Andre Jackson Jr.
|
PF
| Giannis Antetokounmpo
| Bobby Portis
| Kyle Kuzma
|
C
| Brook Lopez
| Jericho Sims
| Bobby Portis
|
Can the Bucks turn the series around?
The Pacers have outplayed Milwaukee so far, capitalizing on the Bucks’ mistakes and lack of urgency. Tyrese Haliburton has been a key factor, and Indiana’s aggressive play has exposed Milwaukee’s weaknesses.
Key concerns for the Milwaukee Bucks
- Damian Lillard’s struggles – In Game 2, Lillard managed only 14 points, 7 assists, and 3 rebounds. The Bucks need him to regain his rhythm.
- Defensive lapses – The Pacers have controlled the tempo, and Milwaukee must tighten up defensively.
- Over-reliance on Giannis – While Antetokounmpo is a force, the supporting cast must step up.
Doc Rivers remains confident despite 0-2 deficit
Bucks head coach Doc Rivers isn’t panicking yet. He believes the series is far from over and expects a stronger performance at home.
"I look at it as a long series (and) we haven’t played a home game," Rivers said. "We have to go home and take care of business, then we can talk. I’m very confident about this series. Very."
What the Bucks need to do differently
- Increase defensive intensity – The Pacers have been too comfortable offensively.
- Better ball movement – Milwaukee’s offense has been stagnant at times.
- Bench production – Role players like Bobby Portis and Gary Trent Jr. must contribute more.
Also read:
Indiana Pacers announce important update about Tyrese Haliburtons injury status for tonight's Game 3 against the Milwaukee Bucks (April 25, 2025)With Giannis playing, the Bucks have a chance to shift momentum. However, if they fail to address their issues, this series could slip away quickly. Game 3 isn’t just about winning—it’s about proving they can compete when it matters most.