After a strong 6-2 performance in last night’s predictions, our season record has climbed to 149-82, improving our accuracy rate to 64.5%. Tonight, the excitement reaches new heights as the Emirates NBA Cup Semifinals take center stage in Las Vegas. With only a 2-game slate, the stakes are high, and the matchups promise thrilling action.
First, in the Eastern Conference, the Milwaukee Bucks face the Atlanta Hawks in a battle of powerhouse offenses. The Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, will look to assert their dominance, while the Hawks, fueled by Trae Young’s playmaking, aim to pull off an upset and secure a spot in the finals.
In the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder clash with the Houston Rockets in a matchup between two of the most exciting young teams in the league. The Thunder, anchored by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP-caliber season, will face the Rockets, whose resurgence has been driven by Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, and their disciplined defense.
Let’s break down these pivotal games and aim for a perfect night in the NBA Cup Semifinals.
Atlanta Hawks At Milwaukee Bucks – 4:30 PM EST
Hawks Current Record: 14-12
Bucks Current Record: 13-11
Hawks Injuries: De’Andre Hunter – Day To Day (Knee), Bogdan Bogdanovic – Day To Day (Quad), Trae Young – Day To Day (Achilles), Jalen Johnson – Day To Day (Ankle), Cody Zeller – Out (Personal), Seth Lundy – Out (Ankle)
Bucks Injuries: MarJon Beauchamp – Day To Day (Hamstring), Giannis Antetokounmpo – Day To Day (Foot), Khris Middleton – Day To Day (Ankle)
Last 5 Meetings: Bucks Lead 3-2
The Atlanta Hawks and Milwaukee Bucks clash in the NBA Cup semifinals in Las Vegas on Saturday. Both teams are riding high after impressive turnarounds this season. The Hawks, led by Trae Young, have relied on improved defense and team-oriented play to fuel their success.Â
Young leads the league in assists (12.2 per game), unlocking the potential of De’Andre Hunter and Jalen Johnson, while Atlanta’s balanced attack has made them a formidable opponent. Their ability to limit opponents’ three-point shooting will be tested against Milwaukee.
The Bucks have also rebounded from a sluggish start, winning 11 of their last 14 games. Giannis Antetokounmpo has been dominant, averaging 33 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 7.7 assists over his last three games. With Damian Lillard finding his groove, Milwaukee’s offense is one of the league’s most efficient. The Bucks also boast a size advantage and excellent three-point shooting, making them difficult to counter.
While Atlanta’s recent form and defensive improvements are impressive, Milwaukee’s depth, star power, and postseason experience should give them the edge in this matchup.
Prediction: Bucks def. Hawks 115-110
Houston Rockets At Oklahoma City Thunder – 8:30 PM EST
Rockets Current Record: 17-8
Thunder Current Record: 19-5
Rockets Injuries: Dillon Brooks – Day To Day (Illness)
Thunder Injuries: Alex Ducas – Out (Back), Jaylin Williams – Out (Hamstring), Adam Flagler – Out (Metacarpal), Ousmane Dieng – Out (Finger), Chet Holmgren – Out (Hip), Nikola Topic – Out (ACL)
Last 5 Meetings: Thunder Lead 3-2
The Houston Rockets and Oklahoma City Thunder face off in the NBA Cup semifinals in Las Vegas, setting the stage for a clash between the top two defensive teams in the league.Â
Houston has emerged as the surprise of the season. The Rockets recently overcame Golden State in a gritty quarterfinals win, propelled by Alperen Sengun’s stellar performance and Fred VanVleet’s veteran leadership. Houston’s balance, with seven players averaging double figures in scoring, gives them the depth to compete against the Thunder.
Oklahoma City has been dominant despite the absence of Chet Holmgren. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the charge, averaging 30.2 points per game, while Jalen Williams has been a revelation with his all-around play. The Thunder’s league-best +12.0 point differential underscores their ability to dominate both ends of the floor. With their efficient offense and stifling defense, OKC remains the favorite to win the NBA Cup.
This game promises a playoff-like atmosphere, with both teams emphasizing defense. While Houston’s grit makes them a tough matchup, the Thunder’s depth and star power should propel them to victory.
Prediction: Thunder def. Rockets 110-105
