2024 NBA Cup Preview

The NBA Cup reaches its penultimate date, and several spots are still up for grabs, including one in the Boston Celtics’ group. The Celtics need to defeat the Chicago Bulls to stay alive in the competition.

Another team in need of a win is the Los Angeles Lakers, who face a tough road game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic only require one more victory to advance to the next stage, but the Brooklyn Nets won’t make it easy for them.

On the other hand, the Minnesota Timberwolves will go up against the Clippers in their next matchup.

NBA Cup: Brooklyn Nets vs. Orlando Magic

The Brooklyn Nets were expected to be one of the worst-performing teams in the NBA, but their current form has placed them in the middle of the table in the East. However, in the NBA Cup, they hold a 1-2 record, making a win essential to keep their hopes of advancing alive. Cam Thomas leads the team in scoring, averaging 24.7 points per game.

The Orlando Magic is among the best teams in the East and currently leads their group in the NBA Cup with two wins and a +37 point differential. A victory would secure their spot in the next stage. Although Paolo Banchero is sidelined due to injury, Franz Wagner has stepped up, averaging 23.3 points per game. Jalen Suggs is struggling from beyond the arc, shooting just 32%, but he’s still contributing 15.6 points per game.

Nets vs. Magic Betting Pick: Magic

NBA Cup: Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Los Angeles Clippers

Despite Anthony Edwards being a clear MVP contender this season, averaging 28.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists, the Minnesota Timberwolves have been underwhelming. With a 1-2 record, a loss would eliminate their chances of advancing as the West’s best second-place team. Julius Randle has performed well, but they need more production from Donte DiVincenzo and Jaden McDaniels.

Similarly, the Los Angeles Clippers must win this matchup to stay alive and advance as the best second-place team, with the group already claimed by the Houston Rockets. James Harden is having a stellar season and recently dropped 40 points against the Wizards.

Timberwolves vs. Clippers Betting Pick: Clippers

NBA Cup: Chicago Bulls vs. Boston Celtics

To the surprise of many, the Chicago Bulls lead Group C in the East with a 2-1 record and a +15-point differential. A win today would eliminate Boston and offer a silver lining to a season that has been lackluster in the regular phase. Zach LaVine is their top scorer, averaging 21.6 points, while Nikola Vucevic is having a strong campaign with 20.4 points and 9.9 rebounds per game.

The Boston Celtics have already shown they can deliver when it matters most. For the reigning NBA champions, a loss means elimination, making this a must-win situation. Jayson Tatum is averaging 28.4 points, 5.8 assists, and 8.2 rebounds, with Jaylen Brown contributing 25 points per game. Additionally, Kristaps Porzingis has returned, providing a crucial boost for head coach Joe Mazzulla.

Bulls vs. Celtics Betting Pick: Celtics

NBA Cup: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

The Lakers’ group is extremely competitive, making a win crucial to keep their hopes alive heading into the final round. Their record stands at 2-1, but their -16 point differential trails significantly behind the Suns (+19) and Spurs (+14). Anthony Davis is having a stellar season, averaging 29.2 points and 11.5 rebounds. LeBron James continues to perform at a high level at 40 years old, but rookie Dalton Knecht has also made an impact, averaging 11.7 points and shooting 43% from beyond the arc.

The Oklahoma City Thunder, with a 1-1 record, face high stakes in this game as they need a win to keep pace with their group rivals. There’s no denying the talent on this roster, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who averages 29.5 points and 6.4 assists per game.

Lakers vs. Thunder Betting Pick: Thunder