Raptors vs Knicks Prediction: Injury Update and How to Watch Today

The Toronto Raptors host the New York Knicks on December 9 in an NBA Cup quarterfinal matchup that will decide who advances to Las Vegas. The game brings two strong Eastern Conference teams together as both deal with key injuries. The main keyword raptors vs knicks prediction guides today’s full preview.

New York enters at 16-7 while Toronto sits at 15-10 after a strong NBA Cup run. Both sides released updated injury reports on Tuesday that could influence rotations and strategy in tonight’s elimination game.

Full Breakdown Ahead of Raptors vs Knicks Quarterfinal

The Raptors are one of the surprise teams of the 2025 season. They went undefeated in NBA Cup group play with a +55 point differential, according to reports from USA TODAY and the Associated Press. Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram have led the way, both averaging more than 20 points per game.

Toronto will be without RJ Barrett due to a right knee sprain that has sidelined him since November 23. Team officials expect him to remain out at least another week. Jamal Shead is questionable with a quad contusion, and Jamison Battle is doubtful after suffering a left ankle sprain.

The Knicks continue to rely on Jalen Brunson’s elite scoring. He comes off a 30-point performance against the Orlando Magic on December 7. OG Anunoby returned recently from a hamstring issue and has played well on both ends. He enters tonight 4-0 against his former team since joining New York.

Karl-Anthony Towns is listed as questionable with left calf tightness. He missed Sunday’s game but completed a full practice on Monday, raising hopes that he could return. Miles McBride remains out with an ankle sprain, and Landry Shamet continues to recover from a shoulder sprain.

Mitchell Robinson and Anunoby anchor New York’s defense, which has improved significantly with both on the floor. If Towns plays, the Knicks gain a major offensive lift and added spacing. If he sits, Robinson is expected to start with rotation support from Guerschon Yabusele and Ariel Hukporti.

Toronto enters tonight on a three-game home losing streak. New York has won the last nine meetings between the teams, including a 116-94 victory on November 30 where six Knicks scored in double figures.

What This Game Means for Both Teams

The winner of tonight’s matchup moves on to the NBA Cup semifinals in Las Vegas, creating a playoff-like atmosphere in early December. For the Raptors, the game serves as a chance to reassert momentum after recent losses and prove their early-season surge is sustainable.

For the Knicks, this game is an opportunity to extend their strong start and push deeper into the league’s growing in-season competition. A healthy core of Brunson, Bridges, Hart, Anunoby, and potentially Towns gives New York confidence heading into a high-stakes environment.

Raptors vs knicks prediction discussions continue to center on injuries, matchups, and momentum. Tonight’s winner earns a trip to Las Vegas and a chance to chase the NBA Cup title.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What time is Raptors vs Knicks today?

The game starts at 8:30 p.m. ET on December 9 at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. It is a national NBA Cup quarterfinal matchup.

Q2: Where can I watch Raptors vs Knicks?

The game will stream exclusively on Amazon Prime Video. There is no traditional TV broadcast for this quarterfinal.

Q3: Who is injured for Toronto?

RJ Barrett is out with a knee sprain. Jamal Shead is questionable, and Jamison Battle is doubtful with an ankle injury.

Q4: Will Karl-Anthony Towns play tonight?

Towns is listed as questionable with left calf tightness. He practiced Monday, but the team will decide closer to tip-off.

Q5: How did the teams perform in NBA Cup group play?

The Raptors went 4-0 with a strong point differential. The Knicks posted the best overall record among East teams entering the knockout round.