How to watch Toronto Raptors vs New York Knicks NBA Cup West Quarterfinal game: Tip-off time, cable channels, RSNs, livestream providers, international coverage

Team Context: New York Knicks (16-7)

The New York Knicks arrive in Toronto as one of the hottest teams in the league, boasting a 16-7 overall record and sitting second in the Eastern Conference standings. They navigated their NBA Cup East Group C with a strong 3-1 record. New York has been on an impressive run, winning seven of their last eight games and posting an 8-2 record over their last ten outings.

A significant storyline entering this contest is the Knicks' absolute dominance over the Raptors, having won their last nine consecutive matchups, a streak that dates back to January 2023. This includes a decisive 116-94 home victory over Toronto on November 30, where Karl-Anthony Towns led the scoring with 22 points.

Key players for the Knicks include star guard Jalen Brunson, who has been averaging 28 points and 6.4 assists, and the versatile OG Anunoby, who recently returned from a hamstring strain and has been contributing 21 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 steals over his last 10 games. Mitchell Robinson continues to be a force on the boards, leading the Eastern Conference with 4.6 offensive rebounds per game.

However, the Knicks will be without a crucial piece, as Karl-Anthony Towns is sidelined with a calf injury. His absence is a significant blow, especially given his performance in their last meeting with Toronto. Additionally, Landry Shamet is out with a shoulder injury. The Knicks also face the challenge of their road form, as their offense tends to regress to league average when playing away from Madison Square Garden, where they hold a 3-6 road record.

Team Context: Toronto Raptors (15-10)

The Toronto Raptors, despite holding a respectable 15-10 overall record and sitting fourth in the Eastern Conference, are entering this Quarterfinal on shakier ground. While they earned home-court advantage in the NBA Cup by finishing first in East Group A with a perfect 4-0 record, their recent form has been concerning, dropping three straight and five of their last six games. Their last outing was a 121-113 home loss to the Boston Celtics. Head Coach Darko Rajakovic has publicly called for more urgency from his team, emphasizing the need for a full 48-minute effort.

The Raptors' offensive attack is spearheaded by Brandon Ingram, who is averaging 21.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, and Scottie Barnes, who has been averaging 18.0 points over the last 10 games and leads the team in paint scoring. Immanuel Quickley also put up a strong performance against the Knicks in their November 30 matchup, tallying 19 points and 8 assists.

Toronto is also dealing with key injuries, with RJ Barrett (knee) and Jamison Battle (ankle) both out for this critical game.