The 2025 NBA Cup group stage is reaching its final week, and four teams have separated themselves from the rest of the field. The Toronto Raptors, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves all sit at 2–0, positioning themselves strongly for advancement to the December 9 quarterfinals in Las Vegas.
With group play set to conclude on November 28, these unbeaten teams look poised to punch early tickets to the elimination rounds.
Toronto Leading the East Through Defense
The Raptors’ identity has been clear from the start—elite, organized defense backed by strong execution in crunch time. Toronto opened group play with wins over the Cleveland Cavaliers and Atlanta Hawks, vaulting them to the top of East Group A with a +23 point differential.
Their most impressive win came in a 121–112 road victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, where Toronto took control with a dominant third quarter push.
A win on November 21 against the Washington Wizards could mathematically secure their advancement before the final group match is even played.
Lakers and Timberwolves Powering the West
The Western Conference has been defined by two dominant starts.
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers lead West Group B at 2–0 with a +19 point margin, securing wins over the Memphis Grizzlies and New Orleans Pelicans. Their balanced scoring and efficient half-court defense have made them early threats to return to the NBA Cup semifinals.
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves have been the tournament’s most overwhelming force so far, boasting a staggering +54 point differential, the best in the league. Minnesota’s explosive start includes two home blowouts, setting up a massive clash against the undefeated Phoenix Suns on November 21, a game that could determine seeding and group supremacy.
Point Differentials Paint the Picture
The early numbers show how convincing these unbeaten teams have been:
- Timberwolves: +54
- Raptors: +23
- Lakers: +19
- Bucks: 2–0 (differential pending)
Minnesota’s margin suggests championship-level dominance, while Toronto and Los Angeles are combining balance, depth and execution at both ends of the floor.
Undefeated Teams – Current Standings
Team RecordPoint Differential Group
Toronto Raptors 2–0+23 East Group A
Milwaukee Bucks 2–0 TBA East Group C
Los Angeles Lakers2–0+19 West Group B
Minnesota Timberwolves2–0+54West Group A
What Comes Next
Group play continues through November 28, with several decisive matchups scheduled:
- Timberwolves vs. Suns – Nov. 21
- Raptors vs. Wizards – Nov. 21
Once the dust settles, the tournament enters sudden-death play:
- Quarterfinals: Dec. 9–10
- Semifinals: Dec. 13 – Las Vegas
- Championship: Dec. 16 – Las Vegas
The eventual winners will receive $500,000 per player.
Can the Unbeaten Teams Stay Perfect?
A strong start doesn’t guarantee a championship, but each of these teams looks built for postseason success:
- Minnesota’s dominance is statistical outlier territory
- Toronto’s defense is sustainable deep into tournament play
- Lakers and Bucks have veteran cores with proven winning resumes
Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder, the defending NBA Cup champions, remain in the hunt at 1–0 and sit as early betting favorites to challenge again once the bracket shifts into elimination mode.
With one week left in group play, the pressure is rising, the matchups are tightening, and the path to Las Vegas is coming sharply into focus.
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