The 2025 Emirates NBA Cup kicks off on October 31, marking the start of its third edition. This in-season tournament features a single-elimination format, which has previously yielded surprises for favorites and opportunities for underdogs. Last year’s champion, the Oklahoma City Thunder, made it to the finals, yet the two earlier winners—the Los Angeles Lakers and the Milwaukee Bucks—did not advance beyond the first round of the playoffs after their Cup victories. This sets the tone for a competitive and unpredictable tournament.
NBA Cup Predictions: Favorites and Wild-Card Contenders
Using projections from ESPN’s Basketball Power Index (BPI), we assess which teams are poised to excel in the tournament. Each of the six NBA Cup groups has a designated favorite and several contenders for the wild-card spots. Here’s a breakdown of the standings and predictions.
East Group A
- Group Favorite: Cleveland Cavaliers – 55%
- Contender: Atlanta Hawks – 24%
- Lurking: Toronto Raptors – 11%, Indiana Pacers – 7%, Washington Wizards – 3%
This group leans heavily in favor of the Cavaliers, particularly given the struggling Wizards and a Pacers team hampered by injuries. While Cleveland faces injury issues, their current form makes them the frontrunner.
East Group B
- Group Favorite: Philadelphia 76ers – 34%
- Contenders: Orlando Magic – 25%, Detroit Pistons – 20%
- Lurking: Boston Celtics – 19%, Brooklyn Nets – 2%
The 76ers have made a strong start, but Boston’s injury woes leave Group B competitive. Orlando and Detroit are well-positioned to challenge for wild-card spots, especially given the shifting dynamics in the league.
East Group C
- Group Favorite: New York Knicks – 38%
- Contenders: Milwaukee Bucks – 22%, Miami Heat – 22%
- Lurking: Chicago Bulls – 11%, Charlotte Hornets – 7%
The Knicks emerge as the favorites in a tight group that lacks clear weak links. The Bucks, despite roster changes, will seek a strong finish in their bid for another Cup appearance.
West Group A
- Group Favorite: Oklahoma City Thunder – 66%
- Contender: Minnesota Timberwolves – 17%
- Lurking: Sacramento Kings – 8%, Utah Jazz – 5%, Phoenix Suns – 4%
The Thunder’s robust form positions them as overwhelming favorites in Group A. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves are grappling with injuries ahead of their key matchups.
West Group B
- Group Favorite: LA Clippers – 30%
- Contenders: Los Angeles Lakers – 25%, Memphis Grizzlies – 24%
- Lurking: Dallas Mavericks – 15%, New Orleans Pelicans – 7%
The path to the quarterfinals runs through L.A., yet both the Clippers and Lakers face injury challenges. Memphis looks to capitalize on any slip-ups while Dallas and New Orleans aim to make an impact.
West Group C
- Group Favorite: Denver Nuggets – 27%
- Contenders: Houston Rockets – 26%, Golden State Warriors – 21%, San Antonio Spurs – 19%
- Lurking: Portland Trail Blazers – 7%
This group stands out for its level of competition. Denver and Houston are strong contenders, while the presence of competitive teams like Golden State and San Antonio adds intrigue as the Cup progresses.
The 2025 Emirates NBA Cup is set to deliver excitement, unpredictability, and thrilling matchups as teams vie for the tournament title. With this format, every game counts, and fans can expect drama as the field narrows leading into December’s finals.
