Thunder vs. Suns, Lakers vs. Spurs NBA Cup Preview, Raptors Temperature Check + Paolo Banchero's Return

The Orlando Magic triumphed over the Miami Heat in the NBA Cup quarterfinal, overcoming a challenging start where they fell behind 15-0. Desmond Bane led the team with an impressive 37-point performance, marking a significant moment for the Magic as they navigated the game without key player Franz Wagner due to injury.

The Miami Heat suffered a 117-108 defeat to the Orlando Magic in the NBA Cup quarterfinals, marking their fourth consecutive loss and eliminating them from contention for the tournament. The game was notable for being played on a regular-season court due to damage to the Magic's Cup court. Coach Jamahl Mosley emphasized the significance of the Cup within the NBA, despite external perceptions.

Victor Wembanyama, the standout player for the San Antonio Spurs, will miss the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Lakers due to a calf injury. This news comes after his recent return to practice, raising hopes for his participation in the NBA Cup Tournament. However, he is still unable to play, which is disappointing for fans and the team alike.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is set to return from a one-game absence and will play in the NBA Cup quarterfinal against the Phoenix Suns at Paycom Center. His removal from the injury report indicates he has recovered from his recent ailment.

Victor Wembanyama, the star player for the San Antonio Spurs, will not return for the NBA Cup quarterfinals against the Los Angeles Lakers as he continues to recover from a calf strain that has kept him sidelined since mid-November.

Phoenix Suns shooting guard Devin Booker has been upgraded to questionable for the upcoming NBA Cup clash against the Oklahoma City Thunder after being sidelined with a right groin strain. The Suns are set to face the reigning champions, and Booker's potential return is eagerly anticipated as the evaluation period for his injury approaches its conclusion.

Joey and Jesse Buss, recently dismissed from their roles as executives with the Los Angeles Lakers, are exploring the possibility of acquiring an ownership stake in Major League Baseball's Oakland Athletics. This move comes in the wake of significant organizational changes within the Lakers, including the hiring of new executives from the Dodgers.

Matt Barnes has publicly denied a viral rumor suggesting he was scammed out of over sixty thousand dollars by an AI model, a claim made by his friend Gilbert Arenas during a livestream. Barnes, who was reportedly overseas at the time, is addressing the fallout from Arenas' comments, which have sparked widespread speculation and concern among fans and followers.