Saturday's NBA Cup semifinals in Las Vegas pit the Knicks against the Magic and Thunder versus the Spurs, with winners advancing to Tuesday's final. Building on Friday's media day buzz, key injuries loom large while experts favor the Knicks (-4.5) and Thunder (-10.5), though underdogs could cover amid high stakes ($103K per player for semifinalists, $515K for champions).
Knicks vs. Magic
The Knicks (17-7, hot on a four-game win streak) advanced past the Raptors (117-101), powered by Jalen Brunson (28.3 PPG) and Karl-Anthony Towns (22.1 PPG, 12.0 RPG) with the NBA's No. 2 offense (121.8 rating). They split the season series with Orlando but won the latest 106-100.
The Magic (15-10, 5-0 in Cup play) ousted the Heat (117-108), leaning on Paolo Banchero and Desmond Bane (21.7 PPG, 5.7 APG vs. Knicks). Injuries hurt: Franz Wagner (ankle, out), Moritz Wagner (knee, out), Colin Castleton (thumb, out). Knicks counter with Miles McBride (ankle, out), Pacome Dadiet (ankle, questionable), Landry Shamet (shoulder, out).
OG Anunoby's defense on Banchero gives New York the edge; total at 223.5 (lean under). Banchero: “Tremendous opportunity.”
Thunder vs. Spurs
The Thunder (24-1, 16-game streak) crushed the Suns (138-89), leading in forced turnovers (17.9) and points off them (25.0). Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (32.6 PPG, 20+ in 96 straight) dominates alongside Jalen Williams.
Fifth-place Spurs upset the Lakers, welcoming back Victor Wembanyama (3.6 BPG) post-calf injury. De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper fuel a fast attack (11th in pace). San Antonio's ball security could keep it close.
SGA: “Hunter’s mentality.” Total 227.5 (lean over). Semifinalists earn $102,994 per player.
