NBA Cup Showdown: Nuggets Host Warriors in Group of Doom
The stage is set for an electrifying NBA Cup encounter as the Denver Nuggets prepare to welcome the Golden State Warriors at Ball Arena in Denver on November 7, 2025. This high-stakes matchup promises intense basketball action despite the Warriors facing significant roster challenges.
Team Standings and Tournament Context
Both teams compete in Group C, affectionately dubbed the "Group of Doom" by passionate fans. The Nuggets enter this contest with an advantage, having played two fewer games than their California opponents while maintaining a superior position in the standings. This marks the second NBA Cup game for Denver and the first for Golden State in the current campaign.
Denver currently boasts an impressive 5-2 record this season, showcasing their dominance with 3rd-ranked offense and 4th-ranked defense. Meanwhile, the Warriors hold a 5-4 record but have struggled to maintain their early momentum, currently ranking 16th in offense and 10th in defense.
Injury Woes: Warriors Missing Key Players
The Warriors face an uphill battle as coach Steve Kerr will be without his star trio against Denver's formidable roster. Stephen Curry has been ruled out due to illness, dealing a massive blow to Golden State's offensive firepower. The situation worsens with Jimmy Butler III and Draymond Green both marked as questionable with back and rib injuries respectively.
Denver enjoys a relatively clean bill of health, with only Zeke Nnaji listed as questionable due to an ankle concern. This gives the Nuggets a significant advantage heading into the home game.
Expected Lineups and Game Details
Denver Nuggets Starting Lineup:
- Jamal Murray
- Christian Braun
- Cameron Johnson
- Aaron Gordon
- Nikola Jokic
Golden State Warriors Starting Lineup:
- Brandin Podziemski
- Buddy Hield
- Jonathan Kuminga
- Al Horford
- Quinten Post
The game tips off at 10:00 PM ET and will be available for streaming on NBC, Peacock, and Prime Video. Basketball enthusiasts can catch all the action from Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado.
Game Prediction and Analysis
Given the current circumstances, the Denver Nuggets emerge as clear favorites to secure victory. Their superior net rating (3rd compared to Warriors' 12th), home-court advantage, and healthier roster create a perfect storm for success. While the Warriors secured a win in their first encounter this campaign, overcoming the absence of their key players against Denver's dominant lineup appears challenging.
The Nuggets' well-rounded performance on both ends of the court, combined with their strategic depth, positions them strongly to capitalize on Golden State's depleted roster. This NBA Cup clash in the Group of Doom promises thrilling basketball, though the scales tip decidedly toward the home team.
