Orlando Magic and Knicks Set for Heated NBA Cup Semifinal Rematch in Las Vegas

The Orlando Magic face the New York Knicks in the NBA Cup semifinals this Saturday. The high-stakes game tips off at 5:30 p.m. ET in Las Vegas. This marks the fourth meeting between these Eastern Conference rivals this season alone.

Dec 9, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic guard Desmond Bane (3) looks to pass during the second quarter against the Miami Heat at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images

Tensions are exceptionally high following a physical and controversial matchup just days ago. The winner advances to the inaugural NBA Cup final, adding major championship stakes to an already intense rivalry.

Recent History Fuels Fiery Showdown

The season series is currently led by Orlando. They won the first two contests between the teams.

The last game, however, changed the dynamic. Magic star Franz Wagner suffered a high ankle sprain on a hard foul. According to ESPN, he will miss several weeks due to the play involving Knicks center Ariel Hukporti.

Later in that same game, Magic guard Desmond Bane threw a ball at Knicks forward OG Anunoby. The NBA fined Bane $35,000 for the action. This incident has added significant bad blood ahead of the semifinal.

Magic’s Grit Faces Ultimate Test in Vegas Spotlight

Orlando arrives in Vegas after a gritty win over the Miami Heat. Their identity is built on relentless defense and teamwork.

Magic coach Jamahl Mosley praised his team’s resilience. He said they simply find a way to win, no matter how the game looks. This mindset will be critical against a physical Knicks squad.

The absence of Franz Wagner is a major blow for Orlando. His scoring and playmaking must be replaced by committee. Players like Paolo Banchero and Jalen Suggs will need to elevate their games further.

This NBA Cup semifinal is more than a game for the Orlando Magic. It is a statement opportunity against a familiar foe. A win puts them one victory away from the first NBA Cup championship in franchise history.

Info at your fingertips-

What time is the Knicks vs. Magic NBA Cup game?

The semifinal tips off at 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Saturday. The game will be played at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Where can I watch the Magic vs. Knicks game?

The game will be broadcast exclusively on Amazon Prime Video. A subscription to that streaming service is required to watch the semifinal.

Is Franz Wagner playing against the Knicks?

No. Wagner is out with a high ankle sprain suffered against the Knicks earlier this week. ESPN reports he is expected to be sidelined for several weeks.

Who is favored to win the NBA Cup semifinal?

Early betting lines slightly favor the New York Knicks. This is likely due to the Wagner injury and their home-court advantage in the regular season series.

What is at stake in this game?

The winner advances to the NBA Cup final on Sunday. They will play the winner of the other semifinal between the Los Angeles Lakers and New Orleans Pelicans.