By Reinaldo Oliveros
04 Dec 2024, 07:15 AM EST
The NBA Cup, in its second edition, has closed a vibrant group stage and already has defined the quarterfinal clashes, with clashes that promise intense emotions.
This innovative tournament continues to gain prominence in the league calendar and the eight qualified franchises arrive with enough merit to dream of the title.
In the West, Golden State Warriors, Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets They advanced as champions of their respective groups, while the Dallas Mavericks earned a wild card berth after an electrifying comeback against the Grizzlies.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Dallas Mavericks
The Thunder (16-5) arrive as one of the strongest teams in the tournament, led by a stellar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and his unstoppable offense. They will face the Mavericks (14-8), who have their main weapon in Luka Doncic after a performance of 37 points and 12 rebounds that secured them passage.
Houston Rockets vs. Golden State Warriors
The Rockets have been the revelation of the tournament with their young core, while the Warriors (12-8), Despite a five-game losing streak, they advanced as Group C champions thanks to the leadership of Stephen Curry. This duel between experience and youth promises to be a spectacle.
In the East, the Milwaukee Bucks, New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks won their groups, while the Orlando Magic earned a spot as a wild card.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Orlando Magic
The Bucks (11-9), led by a fully fit Giannis Antetokounmpo, arrive as the hottest team in the East after adding seven consecutive victories. The Magic (15-8), for their part, will have to recover quickly after being vastly outplayed by the Knicks at the close of the group stage.
New York Knicks vs. Atlanta Hawks
The Knicks (13-8) look powerful with Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson leading the attack, while the Hawks advanced showing great collective solidity. This duel will pit two teams seeking to consolidate themselves in the East.
The NBA Cup will have a new champion who will join the Los Angeles Lakers, a team that won the first edition last season.
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