The Eastern Conference semifinals field for the 2025-26 Emirates NBA Cup is set – and it’s the Magic and Knicks who punched their tickets to Las Vegas.

The Magic overcame the Miami Heat 117-108 in the first quarterfinal pairing. Guard Desmond Bane dropped 37 points, including six 3-pointers and 15 in the fourth quarter, to lead Orlando’s comeback win. Key contributions came from Jalen Suggs (20 points) and Paolo Banchero (18 points) despite missing forward Franz Wagner, who was sidelined with an ankle sprain. The Magic pulled off the win without their other star, advancing to the Cup semifinals for the first time in franchise history.

On the road in Toronto, the Knicks handled the Raptors 117-101. Star guard Jalen Brunson exploded for 35 points, with 20 coming in a red-hot first quarter, while Josh Hart chipped in 21 points and Karl‑Anthony Towns added 14 points and 16 rebounds. New York turned a tight first quarter into a dominant second-quarter surge that carried them the rest of the way.

The Magic’s run – without their leading scorer – showed depth and resilience for the team as Bane’s performance earned him new attention as a clutch scorer, while Orlando’s defense and bench play held up under pressure.

Meanwhile, the Knicks reaffirm their status as serious Cup contenders. With Brunson leading the way and strong two-way support around him, New York looks well-positioned for what could be a deep Cup run. 

The Emirates NBA Cup continues to deliver high stakes and meaningful games early in the season. With the winner’s bracket set, the road to the title now shifts to Las Vegas, where pressure, spotlight and prize money await.