NBA Cup 2025 Standings and Bracket Predictions After October 31 Group Play
The 2025 NBA Cup group stage kicked off on Friday, featuring impressive individual performances across teams.
West Group C Surprises
Portland stunned the West by narrowly defeating Denver 109-107. Deni Avdija led Portland with 23 points, supported by six players who scored in double digits. This win puts Denver in a difficult position as they still face Houston Rockets, Golden State Warriors, and San Antonio Spurs in upcoming games.
The outcome might also benefit Houston, Golden State, and San Antonio since Denver could be eliminated from first place contention with just one more loss.
West Group B Contest
The battle between Los Angeles teams, the Lakers and Clippers, is shaping up to decide West Group B. Both teams secured close wins on Friday night and will face each other on November 25 for group supremacy.
West Group A Outlook
Currently, the Phoenix Suns top West Group A, but the Oklahoma City Thunder are expected to claim first place as the group progresses.
East Group A Developments
In the East, both the Cavaliers and New York Knicks suffered losses on the opening night. Toronto's victory over Cleveland shook up East Group A standings.
The Atlanta Hawks, having defeated a weakened Indiana Pacers squad, now lead the group and may emerge as the biggest beneficiaries of the recent results.
East Group C Opening
New York's loss to Chicago has opened the door for the Milwaukee Bucks to take control of East Group C as they begin their group matches.
"The Blazers received 23 points from Deni Avdija and had six players reach double figures to take down one of the giants of the West."
"Denver now sits in a precarious spot because it still has to face the Houston Rockets, Golden State Warriors and San Antonio Spurs in group play."
"They meet on November 25 in what will likely be the group decider."
Author's summary: Early surprises in the 2025 NBA Cup group stage have reshaped the standings, with key matchups still looming that will determine the final group leaders.