Upcoming NBA Cup Semifinals: Spurs vs. Lakers and More

The NBA Cup semifinals are set to feature a highly anticipated matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and the San Antonio Spurs. According to ESPN, Lakers guard Marcus Smart has been cleared to practice after missing six games due to a back issue, which will provide a significant boost to Los Angeles' defense as they prepare for the Spurs.

The Lakers are coming off a strong performance, having won nine of their last eleven games, with LeBron James recently returning to the lineup and scoring a season-high 29 points against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Meanwhile, the Spurs, who have found success without their star rookie Victor Wembanyama due to a calf strain, are also riding a wave of momentum, winning eight of their last eleven games. Coach JJ Redick of the Lakers emphasized the need to contain the dynamic guard De'Aaron Fox, who has averaged over 24 points since returning to the lineup.

The stakes are high, as the winner of this matchup will advance to Las Vegas for a shot at the $530,000 cash prize per player in the championship game. The other semifinal will see the Oklahoma City Thunder face off against the Phoenix Suns, with the Thunder holding the best record in the league at 23-1.

This matchup is also significant as it could serve as a litmus test for both the Lakers and Spurs as they aim to establish themselves as contenders in the league, especially with the defending champions, the Thunder, looming in the finals.