NBA Cup 2025 Standings and Bracket Outlook
The 2025 NBA Cup group stage opened on Friday with some outstanding performances and dramatic upsets. Portland delivered the biggest shock in the West by defeating Denver 109-107, led by Deni Avdija’s 23 points and a balanced effort with six players scoring in double figures.
Denver now faces a challenging path, still set to play the Houston Rockets, Golden State Warriors, and San Antonio Spurs. This mix of competitive teams means Portland’s win doesn’t guarantee them dominance in West Group C. In fact, the loss leaves Denver vulnerable and could benefit the Rockets, Warriors, or Spurs in the standings.
Over in West Group B, both Los Angeles teams — the Lakers and Clippers — earned narrow victories on Friday. Their November 25 matchup will likely decide which team tops the group. In West Group A, the Phoenix Suns lead for now, though the expectation is that the Oklahoma City Thunder will eventually take first place.
In the East, both the Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks stumbled in their opening games. Toronto boosted its chances in East Group A by defeating Cleveland, while the Atlanta Hawks took advantage of the situation, beating an injury-depleted Indiana Pacers squad to climb to the top. Meanwhile, New York’s loss to Chicago created an opening in East Group C that the Milwaukee Bucks could seize once they begin their group play.
"Portland produced the biggest surprise in the West with its 109-107 win over Denver."
Key Takeaways
- Portland’s upset reshaped the balance in West Group C.
- The Lakers-Clippers clash on November 25 will likely determine West Group B’s winner.
- Toronto and Atlanta emerged as early contenders in East Group A.
- The Bucks look ready to capitalize in East Group C after the Knicks’ early defeat.
Author’s Summary
Early NBA Cup 2025 results have shaken up expectations, with Portland’s upset and shifting group dynamics promising a tight race across both conferences.