The New York Knicks and Orlando Magic will tip off in the NBA Cup semifinal on Saturday, December 13, at 5:30 PM ET from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Both teams enter the matchup with notable absences that could impact rotations and strategy.
The Knicks will be without Miles McBride and Landry Shamet, both sidelined with ankle and shoulder sprains, respectively, while Pacome Dadiet is listed as questionable with a left ankle sprain. McBride, who averages 11.6 points and 2.5 assists per game, and Shamet, contributing 9.3 points per contest, will leave gaps in New York’s backcourt.
New York’s offense will lean heavily on Jalen Brunson, who is averaging 28.3 points and 6.3 assists per game, alongside Karl-Anthony Towns, putting up 22.1 points and 12 rebounds per contest. Mikal Bridges (16.4 points per game) and Josh Hart (12.4 points, 7.8 rebounds per game) are expected to take on additional responsibilities in the absence of their injured teammates.
The Magic will also be shorthanded, with Colin Castleton out due to a left thumb fracture and Franz Wagner sidelined by a left high ankle sprain. Moritz Wagner continues his recovery from a left knee injury. Franz Wagner’s 22.7 points and 6.1 rebounds per game make him a central part of Orlando’s offensive and defensive schemes, while Paolo Banchero contributes 20.2 points and 7.9 rebounds on average.
Orlando’s lineup will rely on Anthony Black (13 points per game, 3.2 assists) and Desmond Bane (19 points, 4.5 assists per game) to fill scoring and playmaking roles, while Wendell Carter Jr. provides inside presence with 11.7 points and 7.7 rebounds per contest.
The two teams have split their last three meetings this season, with the Magic winning the first two and the Knicks claiming the most recent matchup 106–100 at home on December 7. New York has a four-game winning streak and a 17–7 overall record, while Orlando is 15–10 and enters with a one-game winning streak.
