NBA Cup 2025 Standings and Bracket Predictions After October 31 Group Play
The 2025 NBA Cup group stage kicked off on Friday with exciting individual performances and surprising results across the league.
Western Conference Highlights
Portland pulled off the biggest upset in the West by defeating Denver 109-107. Deni Avdija led the Blazers with 23 points, supported by six players scoring in double digits, overcoming one of the West's top teams. Denver's situation is now uncertain as they still face Houston Rockets, Golden State Warriors, and San Antonio Spurs in group play.
This result may benefit Houston, Golden State, and San Antonio because a single Denver loss could push them out of first place contention in West Group C. Meanwhile, West Group B appears likely to be contested by the two Los Angeles teams. Both the Lakers and Clippers secured narrow wins on Friday and will face off on November 25 to likely decide the group's leader. Phoenix Suns currently lead West Group A, but the Oklahoma City Thunder is expected to dominate and claim first place.
Eastern Conference Overview
In the East, both the Cavaliers and New York Knicks experienced losses on the opening night of group play. Toronto surprised many with a win over Cleveland, shaking up East Group A. This opens opportunities for the Atlanta Hawks, who climbed to the top after beating a depleted Indiana Pacers squad.
New York’s defeat against Chicago has created an opening in East Group C, giving the Milwaukee Bucks a chance to take the lead as their group play begins.
"Portland produced the biggest surprise in the West with its 109-107 win over Denver."
"New York's loss to Chicago opened up East Group C for the Milwaukee Bucks to take over when they begin group play."
Author's summary: Early group stage surprises in the 2025 NBA Cup have reshaped competition, with key battles ahead in both conferences likely to determine playoff positioning.