The Knicks travel over the border and then return to NYC to host the Hawks in the NBA Cup quarterfinals. Win the latter, and our heroes will advance to Las Vegas for a semifinal game on December 14–and potentially the final on December 17. Here’s your preview, better late than never.
Knicks atToronto Raptors, Monday, December 9, 2024
The New York Knicks (14-9) face the Toronto Raptors (7-17) at Scotiabank Arena, with both teams eager to rebound from recent losses. The spotlight will be on OG Anunoby’s first return to Toronto since his trade to the Knicks, where he’s thriving with a career-high 17.7 PPG. The Knicks may be shorthanded, with Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, and Cameron Payne all potentially sidelined. Meanwhile, the Raptors will lean on RJ Barrett, enjoying a career year in his hometown, alongside Scottie Barnes (also having a career year) and spunky Gradey Dick. Should be a tight game, especially if KAT and Cam are out.
Knicks vsAtlanta Hawks, Wednesday, December 11, 2024
The ‘Bockers host the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday at Madison Square Garden in the NBA Cup quarterfinals. The Knicks advanced by sweeping group play; the Hawks secured their spot with key wins despite battling injuries. The matchup features a marquee duel between point guards Jalen Brunson and F. Trae Young, both essential cogs to their teams’ offenses. With a trip to Las Vegas for the semifinals on the line, this high-stakes clash promises to be an exciting one.
On November 6, 2024, the Hawks edged out the Knicks 121-116 at State Farm Arena. Rookie Zaccharie Risacher led Atlanta with a career-high 33 points, while F. Trae added 23 points and 10 assists. Despite Karl-Anthony Towns’ 34-point, 16-rebound performance, the Knicks struggled defensively and on the boards, giving up 16 offensive rebounds.
If the Knicks defeat Atlanta on Wednesday, they will travel to Las Vegas to play the semifinal on Saturday, Dec. 14, facing either the winner of Bucks vs. Magic.
If they win THAT game, they’ll play the Final on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. Their opponent would be the Thunder, Warriors, Rockets, or Mavericks.
Do they get a parade if they win the Cup? How about a swanky luncheon?
Go Knicks.