NBA Cup East Races Heat Up: Who Claims Quarterfinal Spots?

The Emirates NBA Cup group stage in the Eastern Conference is reaching its climax this Friday, with multiple teams still in contention for quarterfinal berths. The undefeated Toronto Raptors have already secured their position. Meanwhile, the outcome of key games will determine the remaining qualifiers, with a wild card spot also up for grabs.

The matchup between the Orlando Magic and Detroit Pistons holds significant weight; the winner advances directly, while the loser must rely on tiebreakers. The Magic are aiming to avenge an earlier loss to the Pistons, who are seeking to rebound after a streak-ending defeat.

Elsewhere, the Miami Heat, having completed their games, are closely monitoring the Milwaukee Bucks vs. New York Knicks contest. A Bucks victory would put Miami in a favorable tiebreaker scenario. Conversely, a Knicks win would position them for a direct quarterfinal spot, leaving the Heat to battle for a wild card.