The second annual Emirates NBA Cup semifinals are set for Saturday at T-Mobile Arena, with four teams vying for the in-season tournament title. The Thunder and Bucks enter as favorites, while the Rockets and Hawks look to pull off upsets.
Here are the updated NBA Cup title odds from DraftKings Sportsbook:
Oklahoma City Thunder: +110
Milwaukee Bucks: +245
Houston Rockets: +450
Atlanta Hawks: +600
The action begins with the Bucks facing the Hawks in the early game, followed by the Thunder taking on the Rockets in the nightcap.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Atlanta Hawks
Tip-off: 4:30 p.m. ET
Spread: Bucks -4 (-105) | Hawks +4 (-115)
Moneyline: Bucks -175 | Hawks +145
Total: Over 228.5 (-112) | Under 228.5 (-108)
The Bucks have found their groove after a slow start to the season, going 11-3 since NBA Cup play began. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard have built strong chemistry, while Khris Middleton’s return has stabilized the rotation. Milwaukee has boasted the NBA’s third-best offense over its last 10 games.
The Hawks have embraced their underdog role, winning seven of their last eight games to reach Las Vegas. Atlanta knocked off the Celtics and Cavaliers in group play before defeating the Knicks in the quarterfinals. Trae Young and Dyson Daniels have led the charge, with the latter providing defensive versatility.
The key for Milwaukee will be exploiting Young’s defensive shortcomings while maintaining their offensive efficiency. The Bucks are four-point favorites, but Atlanta has punched above its weight in high-pressure moments.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Houston Rockets
Tip-off: 8:30 p.m. ET
Spread: Thunder -5.5 (-108) | Rockets +5.5 (-112)
Moneyline: Thunder -225 | Rockets +185
Total: Over 212.5 (-110) | Under 212.5 (-110)
The Thunder enter as the tournament’s favorites, thanks to their top-ranked defense and the stellar play of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Oklahoma City has relied on its ability to disrupt opponents, as seen in its quarterfinal win over the Mavericks, where Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving were held to 33 combined points.
Meanwhile, the Rockets have leaned on their defensive identity and rebounded dominance. Alperen Sengun has emerged as a star, averaging 18.8 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 5.3 assists this season. Houston’s ability to control the boards has been a game-changer, particularly in its quarterfinal win over the Warriors.
The Thunder must address their rebounding issues, as Houston leads the league in offensive boards and second-chance points. If the Rockets can exploit that advantage, they could force a tight game despite being 5.5-point underdogs.
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All odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbook and all odds subject to change.
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