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NBA Cup: Lakers Advance, Raptors Clinch, Knockouts Begin Soon

11/26/2025

28 5 Full Breakdown

Center

Lakers Advance Knockouts

The 2025 NBA Cup moves to knockout rounds after the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Los Angeles Clippers for a quarterfinal berth.
In the Eastern Conference, the Toronto Raptors have clinched Group A, while the Milwaukee Bucks and Miami Heat contest Group C.
The final group stage games take place Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday to determine remaining six quarterfinalists, and the knockout stage starts December 9 with Lakers–Clippers and Bucks–Heat.

Left

Rockets Dominate Rebounds

The Houston Rockets lead the NBA Cup with an 11-4 record, after a loss to the Denver Nuggets.
Their success stems from a strategy prioritizing offensive rebounding over shooting efficiency.
The Rockets rank first in offensive rebounds at 38.5%, enabling more shot attempts.
The New York Knicks mirror this approach, excelling in possessions.
The Washington Wizards rank last in turnover creation and defensive rebounding, contributing to struggles.

History

Historical Context

The NBA's competitive landscape transformed in 1976 when it merged with the ABA, incorporating four teams, including the Denver Nuggets. This merger introduced new playoff formats and strategies, emphasizing offensive rebounding, which remains crucial today. Currently, the Houston Rockets lead the league with a 38.5% offensive rebounding rate, showcasing the lasting impact of this historical shift on team dynamics and playoff success.

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Lakers Advance Knockouts

The 2025 NBA Cup moves to knockout rounds after the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Los Angeles Clippers for a quarterfinal berth.
In the Eastern Conference, the Toronto Raptors have clinched Group A, while the Milwaukee Bucks and Miami Heat contest Group C.
The final group stage games take place Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday to determine remaining six quarterfinalists, and the knockout stage starts December 9 with Lakers–Clippers and Bucks–Heat.

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