The NBA playoffs continue on Tuesday, April 29, with four exciting Game 5 matchups. There are various series already playing an elimination game, providing high-stakes matchups to key in on. Here are the top betting picks on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Here is the full NBA playoff schedule for Tuesday, April 29 (all times Eastern):
- Bucks at Pacers, 6 p.m.
- Pistons at Knicks, 7:30 p.m.
- Magic at Celtics, 8:30 p.m.
- Clippers at Nuggets, 10 p.m.
Bucks +7.5 (-108)
The Milwaukee Bucks are facing elimination in their first-round series against the Indiana Pacers, down 3-1 after a 129-103 loss in Game 4. The injury to Damian Lillard, who is out for the remainder of the postseason with a torn Achilles tendon, makes this a tough uphill battle for Milwaukee. However, with Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the charge, the Bucks still have the talent to compete.
Indiana has been dominant throughout the series, but the Bucks’ playoff experience and their need to avoid elimination will likely make this a closer contest. Expect Milwaukee to cover the +7.5 spread as they fight to stay alive in the series.
Knicks -5.5 (-108)
The New York Knicks are in a strong position to close out their first-round series against the Detroit Pistons, leading 3-1. After two narrow wins in Detroit, the Knicks will look to finish the job at Madison Square Garden. Karl-Anthony Towns has been exceptional, and Jalen Brunson has been clutch, averaging 33.3 points per game in the series.
Detroit has been competitive but has struggled to close out games, and the Knicks’ ability to rely on their stars down the stretch gives them an advantage. The Knicks are poised to cover the -5.5 spread and advance to the next round.
Celtics -11.5 (-110)
The Boston Celtics have a chance to advance to the second round with a win over the Orlando Magic in Game 5. After winning the first two games at home, Boston took a 3-1 series lead with a 107-98 win in Game 4. Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum have been playing at an elite level, and the Celtics’ depth has been a significant factor.
Orlando has been tough at times, especially with Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner playing well, but the Celtics’ offensive firepower and defensive prowess make them the favorites to cover the -11.5 spread. Expect Boston to finish this series at home.
Nuggets +1.5 (-110)
The Denver Nuggets tied their series 2-2 after a thrilling win in Game 4, and now they head home for Game 5. Nikola Jokic has been dominant, averaging 28.5 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 10.8 assists in the series. Jamal Murray has been solid. With the series tied, Denver has the chance to take control with a home win.
While the LA Clippers, led by Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, are tough competition, Denver’s starters and home-court advantage give them the edge. The Nuggets are well-positioned to cover the +1.5 spread and take a 3-2 series lead.
James Harden Over 30.5 Points + Assists (-125)
Harden has been crucial for the Clippers in the playoffs, averaging 21.3 points and 9.5 assists through four games. With the series tied at 2-2, Harden will likely need to play a bigger role in Game 5 to help the Clippers take a series lead. His ability to both score and facilitate the offense makes him a strong candidate to surpass the 30.5 combined points and assists line.
Expect Harden to step up and deliver another all-around performance in this critical game.
