The Emirates NBA Cup is now in year two and we're all still trying to feel out what place it will take in the league’s attention economy. But one thing is clear –– nearly everyone is thrilled to have some bigger stakes on the table this early in the NBA season. Are the Oklahoma City Thunder ready to avenge their playoff elimination against the Dallas Mavericks? Can the New York Knicks prove their new offense-first approach to be a winning formula? Are Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors ready to contend for another title? 

With the cup quarterfinals happening Tuesday and Wednesday, Tim Bontemps joins David Dennis Jr. to preview what to watch for and why this week will give us our biggest indication yet as to which contenders are for real.

Tue, Dec. 10 

Magic vs. Bucks | 7 p.m. ET (TNT) 

Mavericks vs. Thunder | 9:30 p.m. ET (TNT)

Wed, Dec. 11 

Hawks vs. Knicks | 7 p.m. ET (ESPN)

Warriors vs. Rockets | 9:30 p.m. ET (TNT)

You can honor Jim Valvano and support ESPN’s V Week with a donation to the V Foundation for Cancer Research.

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