Spurs, Celtics Lead Projected NBA Cup Knockout Field

Three weeks into the NBA Cup, the Spurs and Celtics had built the strongest positions in the group standings. Both were 2–0 and had a plus-53 point differential through games on November 13, putting San Antonio atop West Group C and Boston atop East Group C.

San Antonio strengthened its lead with a 123–85 win over Golden State. The Warriors fell behind 18–0 early while playing without Stephen Curry. In another lopsided result, Memphis beat New Orleans 142–111. Portland continued its run with a 120–107 victory over Sacramento.

The Clippers edged Oklahoma City 113–112 in the night’s closest game. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 40 points for the Thunder, but Brook Lopez made key plays late as Los Angeles secured the win.

The projected eight-team knockout field had Boston, Miami, Orlando and Detroit representing the East, and San Antonio, Minnesota, Dallas and Denver in the West. Miami and Minnesota were each 2–0. Orlando reached 2–0 in East Group A with an eight-point win over Milwaukee, while Detroit appeared as an East wild card at 1–0. The Timberwolves led West Group B at 2–0; Dallas topped West Group A at 2–0.

Four NBA Cup nights remained on the schedule. The projection was based on standings through November 13, with Miami still to face Philadelphia and New York in group play.