It was a busy weekend in the NBA Cup group stage, with several close games and some big performances from the league’s stars.
Friday, October 31
Atlanta Hawks 128–108 Indiana Pacers
The Hawks cruised past the Pacers thanks to a strong team effort. Jalen Johnson led the way with 22 points, 13 rebounds, and 8 assists. Indiana’s Q. Jackson scored 15 points, but the Pacers struggled in the third quarter, managing only 17 points.
Boston Celtics 109–108 Philadelphia 76ers
The Celtics edged out the 76ers in a thrilling finish. Jaylen Brown starred with 32 points and 6 assists, while Tyrese Maxey nearly led Philly to victory with 26 points, 8 rebounds, and 14 assists.
Toronto Raptors 112–101 Cleveland Cavaliers
The Raptors earned an impressive away win, powered by Brandon Ingram’s 20 points and 8 rebounds. Evan Mobley kept the Cavs in the game with 29 points and 8 boards, but Toronto’s strong finish sealed it.
Saturday, November 1
Chicago Bulls 135–125 New York Knicks
The Bulls held off a late Knicks rally to claim the win at home. Josh Giddey was outstanding with 32 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists — just shy of a triple-double. OG Anunoby scored 26 for New York in defeat.
Los Angeles Lakers 117–112 Memphis Grizzlies
Luka Dončić dominated for the Lakers, scoring 44 points with 12 rebounds and 6 assists. The Lakers overcame a strong first half from Memphis, led by Jock Landale’s 16 points, to grab an important group-stage win.
Phoenix Suns 118–96 Utah Jazz
Devin Booker led the Suns with 36 points and 9 assists as Phoenix controlled the game from start to finish. Lauri Markkanen scored 33 for Utah, but his effort wasn’t enough to stop the Suns’ fast-paced attack.
Portland Trail Blazers 109–107 Denver Nuggets
Portland edged out the defending champions in a tight contest. Deni Avdija top-scored with 23 points for the Blazers, while Nikola Jokić was close to a triple-double with 21 points, 14 rebounds, and 9 assists.
Los Angeles Clippers 126–124 New Orleans Pelicans
Kawhi Leonard delivered a brilliant all-round game with 34 points and 6 steals as the Clippers held off a late charge from the Pelicans. Jordan Poole led New Orleans with 30 points, but his team fell just short.
It was a weekend full of drama, with Luka Dončić and Kawhi Leonard among the standout performers as the NBA Cup group stage continues to heat up.
