NBA: Listing the top five must-watch Black Friday games
Thanksgiving and Black Friday aren't just about food and shopping—it's a basketball fan's paradise! With the NBA Cup in full swing, teams are battling for dominance in a series of must-watch matchups. Whether you're a die-hard NBA fan or just tuning in for some holiday excitement, here are the top five must-watch Black Friday NBA games.
New York Knicks at Charlotte Hornets - 12pm ET
As the NBA Cup intensifies, the Hornets aim to rebound from two losses, fueled by LaMelo Ball's impressive form. Meanwhile, the Knicks, unbeaten in East Group A at 2-0, look to extend their streak and secure a playoff spot. With Karl Anthony-Towns, Mikal Bridges, and Jalen Brunson leading the charge, this showdown promises to be a thrilling clash of aspirations and talent.
Oklahoma City Thunder at LA Lakers - 10pm ET
Both teams are fighting to keep their tournament hopes alive. This do-or-die matchup sees the Lakers, third in West Group B with a -16 points differential after a tough loss to the Phoenix Suns, relying on Anthony Davis' MVP form to bounce back. Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and OKC, fourth with a 1-1 record, face urgency to stay in the NBA Cup playoff race.
Cleveland Cavaliers at Atlanta Hawks - 2:30pm ET
The Cavaliers, despite an impressive start this season, find themselves fourth in East Group C with a 1-1 NBA Cup record. The Hawks, sitting in third with a 2-1 record, are also in a tricky spot. Both teams are under pressure to secure a win and get back on track, making this Black Friday matchup a high-stakes battle and a must-watch for basketball fans.
New Orleans Pelicans at Memphis Grizzlies - 5pm ET
The Pelicans, struggling without Zion Williamson (4-15 regular season), sit third in NBA Cup West Group C (1-2). A win against the Grizzlies could reignite hope for fans this season. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies, fifth in the group but fourth in the Western Conference (12-7), aim to climb the NBA Cup ranks. However, this fixture is a pivotal clash as both teams seek redemption.
LA Clippers at Minnesota Timberwolves - 7:30pm ET
Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves would look to bounce back from their recent struggles and get back to winning ways. However, the Clippers are coming off a win, and are sitting in the second spot in West Group A with a 1-1 record. LA would look to James Harden to keep up his recent form while Minnesota would depend on Edwards for a win.
