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Pacers vs. Cavaliers Prediction: Cleveland to Win, Donovan Mitchell Projected for Big Game in Game 1 [2025]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Ryan Leaver, Senior Sports and Betting Editor
Our expert prediction for Sunday's Indiana Pacers vs Cleveland Cavaliers Game 1 matchup.
The Cleveland Cavaliers and Indiana Pacers will lock horns in the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena on Sunday, with tipoff at 6:00PM ET.
Based on updated simulation results and today’s injury news, Dimers' advanced NBA model (see Dimers Pro for full access) projects the Cavaliers as the most likely winner of Game 1.
"Using the most recent data, our experts ran 10,000 simulations of Sunday's Indiana-Cleveland game," said Damien Souness from Dimers.
"After accounting for recent updates and other variables, our prediction shows the Cavaliers with a win probability of 74%, while the Pacers have 26%."
This prediction follows the latest NBA Injury Report, which suggests the Cavaliers lineup will feature stars like Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley and Ty Jerome, while the Pacers will look to Pascal Siakam, Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner.
For a closer look at Sunday's matchup, including an expanded look at the predicted score, best bets and player prop picks, visit our interactive Pacers vs. Cavaliers predictions page.
Cavs vs. Pacers Prediction: Who Will Win Game 1?
Using trusted machine learning and statistical analysis, we have simulated the result of Sunday's NBA Playoffs game between the Pacers and Cavaliers 10,000 times as part of our NBA predictions coverage.
Our famous predictive model gives the Cavaliers a 74% chance of defeating the Pacers in Game 1 of the series. Our predicted final score has the Cavaliers winning 118-110.
According to our model, the Pacers (+8) have a 52% chance of covering the spread, while the 229-point over/under has a 51% chance of staying under.
Pacers vs. Cavaliers Game 1 Odds
We have sourced the best NBA odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Pacers | Cavaliers |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | +8 (-108) | -8 (-112) |
| Moneyline | +290 | -350 |
| Total | o229 (-108) | u229 (-108) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
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Pacers vs. Cavaliers Picks and Best Bets for Game 1
Our model's strongest edge in today's Pacers vs. Cavaliers matchup is on the moneyline.
Our expert predictions, aligned with the current odds, reveal the best NBA picks and NBA best bets for every game throughout the season.
Unlimited access to our complete suite of picks, including this one, is available via Dimers Pro.
Pacers vs. Cavaliers Game 1 Player Props
Betting on Pacers vs. Cavaliers NBA prop bets? We use the best information available to project how each team's leading players will perform at Rocket Arena.
Pascal Siakam is expected to lead the Pacers in scoring, while Donovan Mitchell is projected to be the top scorer for the Cavaliers.
Dimers Pro users can access a full range of player props and projected box scores, including points, assists, rebounds and more, for every NBA game this season.
Calling Our Shot's Best Bets Today
Calling Our Shot produces daily NBA betting content, including the best bets featured below.
Pacers vs. Cavs Game 1 Updates and Essential Details
Sunday's Game 1 between the Cavaliers and Pacers in the NBA Playoffs is scheduled to begin at 6:00PM ET.
- Who: Indiana Pacers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
- Date: Sunday, May 4, 2025
- Time: 6:00PM ET/3:00PM PT
- Venue: Rocket Arena
- NBA Playoffs Bracket: Updated NBA Playoffs bracket and schedule
The NBA Playoffs is an annual elimination tournament held to decide the league's champion.
A total of 16 teams, including the Pacers and Cavaliers, made the 2025 NBA Playoffs, which includes four rounds: the First Round, Conference Semifinals, Conference Finals, and NBA Finals.
Each round of the NBA Playoffs is played as a best-of-seven series, with the first team to four wins advancing to the next round until a champion is crowned. Dimers.com's in-depth preview of Sunday's Pacers vs. Cavaliers matchup includes our prediction, picks and the latest betting odds.
Before making any Indiana vs. Cleveland picks, be sure to check out the latest NBA predictions and betting advice from Dimers Pro.
Conclusion
We predict the Cavaliers, with a 74% win probability, will likely beat the Pacers on Sunday.
AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Pacers vs. Cavaliers insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are based on up-to-date data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.
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Ryan Leaver uses advanced statistical models and simulations to predict outcomes and provide predictions for the NBA, NFL, college football, college basketball, and soccer. He offers detailed game previews, best bets, props, and futures articles.
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