The 2025 Emirates NBA Cup quarterfinals are poised to commence on December 5, following the conclusion of group play on November 28. Four matchups will determine which teams advance to the semifinals in Las Vegas on December 9. The Eastern Conference will feature the Miami Heat facing the Orlando Magic, while the Toronto Raptors host the New York Knicks.
In the Western Conference, the action continues on December 6, with the Oklahoma City Thunder taking on the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Lakers squaring off against the San Antonio Spurs. As teams gear up for these pivotal games, injuries and player returns could significantly impact outcomes.
Eastern Conference Showdowns
The matchup between the Heat and Magic carries heightened stakes, especially for Orlando, which will compete without star player Franz Wagner. Wagner suffered a left high ankle sprain during a recent game, and while an MRI confirmed no structural damage, his absence for the next two to four weeks is a significant loss. This season, Wagner has averaged 22.7 points and 6.1 rebounds, contributing to the Magic’s solid performance thus far.
Fortunately for Orlando, Paolo Banchero is returning from a groin injury, adding crucial offensive support. Banchero has been gradually increasing his scoring output, making him a key player as the Magic look to advance in the tournament. The Heat, on the other hand, may have Tyler Herro back from a toe injury, which could provide the much-needed boost after struggling with a 1-4 record in their last five games.
The Knicks will also face a Toronto team that is reeling from injuries. The Raptors have lost five of their last six games and will be without forward RJ Barrett, who is sidelined for at least another week due to a knee sprain. Meanwhile, New York’s offense has been a highlight, ranking third in the NBA for efficiency. However, the Knicks have struggled on the road, which raises questions about their performance in Toronto.
Western Conference Powerhouses
The Oklahoma City Thunder enter the quarterfinals as the team to beat, boasting a remarkable record of 23-1. This impressive start places them among the elite in NBA history, joining the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors and the 1969-70 New York Knicks as teams that have won at least 23 of their first 24 games. The Thunder’s dominance is underscored by an average point differential of plus-16.1, which is on track to surpass their own record set last season.
The Thunder’s recent performance includes a 15-game winning streak, with star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge. In a recent match against the Suns, he showcased his scoring ability, finishing with 37 points. The Thunder’s depth and clutch performance in tight games highlight their potential as they seek to reclaim the championship after losing the finals last year.
Facing the Thunder, the Phoenix Suns will need to overcome significant odds. Despite their challenges, the Suns managed to keep the game close against Oklahoma City in their last encounter, indicating that an upset is not entirely out of reach.
In the matchup between the Lakers and Spurs, Luka Doncic returns for Los Angeles after a brief absence for personal reasons. His presence could be pivotal, especially considering the Spurs will likely miss Victor Wembanyama due to a calf strain. The Lakers previously defeated the Spurs in a tight matchup, and they aim to leverage their experience and depth against a Spurs team looking to prove itself despite Wembanyama’s absence.
As the quarterfinals approach, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how injuries and player performances will shape these critical matchups. Each game promises to be a showcase of talent and determination as teams strive for a coveted spot in the semifinals in Las Vegas.
