The NBA Cup returns: The 10 games you can't miss

The NBA Cup is back and promises more excitement than ever. Following the success of its inaugural edition under the original name of In-Season Tournament, this competition has captured the attention of both the most loyal fans and casual followers. Last year, Los Angeles Lakers were crowned champions in Las Vegas after an impressive streak.

Now, with the NBA unveiling the schedule for this season, there are several standout matches. If you don't remember how the NBA Cup works, we'll remind you briefly: teams are divided into six groups of five for the group stage, and the top team from each group, along with a wild card, advance to the knockout rounds.

Here are the 10 NBA Cup matches you can't miss featuring teams like Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks or Boston Celtics:

1. November 12: Mavericks vs. Warriors

Klay Thompson's return to Golden State will be an emotional event and one of the most anticipated moments of the season. Thompson, after his rehabilitation, will face a shower of love from the Warriors fans. Additionally, the matchup between Stephen Curry and Luka Doncic promises to be a spectacle on the court.

2. November 6: 76ers vs. Clippers

Although not an NBA Cup game, this match is essential. Paul George returns to Los Angeles after his departure from the Clippers. After failing to reach an agreement with the LA team, George signed a maximum contract with Philadelphia. This clash will keep Clippers fans on edge as George faces his former team in his new home.

3. November 12: Knicks vs. 76ers

This clash between two of the top contenders in the Eastern Conference will be crucial in the group stage. The Knicks and the 76ers have strengthened during the summer, and this match could decide the winner of Group East A. Mikal Bridges should adapt quickly to New York, while George's integration in Philadelphia will be one of the most intriguing mysteries.

4. November 19: Thunder vs. Spurs

Victor Wembanyama against Chet Holmgren is a duel you can't miss. This matchup could be a preview of the center battle at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. The Thunder are favorites in the West, but the Spurs, with Wembanyama at the helm, promise to be a tough opponent.

5. November 29: Pelicans vs. Grizzlies

Zion Williamson and Ja Morant will face off in a match that promises to be a high-flying spectacle. Both teams are looking to bounce back and be a threat in the West this season, making this match crucial to measure their progress.

6. November 22: Mavericks vs. Nuggets

Two Western Conference contenders face off in a duel that could define Group West C. Dallas has bolstered its roster with a motivated Klay Thompson, while Denver is betting on the growth of its young talents. This match will be a good test for both teams.

7. December 3: Warriors vs. Nuggets

Another standout matchup in Group West C. Stephen Curry and Nikola Jokic will lead their respective teams in a duel that could decide who advances in the NBA Cup. Which team will take a step forward in this crucial match?

8. November 19: Cavaliers vs. Celtics

The Cavaliers, with their new coach Kenny Atkinson, aim to take the next step in the Eastern Conference. This match against the defending champions, the Celtics, will be an important test to assess whether Cleveland can compete at the highest level.

9. November 29: Thunder vs. Lakers

Will this be the moment when LeBron James and Anthony Davis pass the torch to the new generation, or will they have one last golden run in them? This duel between the experienced LA duo and the young star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will be one of the most exciting in the NBA Cup.

10. December 3: Magic vs. Knicks

Group A of the East, nicknamed "the group of death," will see the Magic take on the Knicks in a match that could determine the group's destiny. New York is a serious contender, but Orlando is a rising team, and this match will be a test of how far they have come.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Vuelve la NBA Cup: Los 10 partidos que no puedes perderte