The NBA Cup takes centre stage on Saturday with a huge slate of games, including three fascinating matchups between some of the league's biggest names. The defending champion Knicks head to Philadelphia for a rematch of their opening-night defeat, Houston put their unbeaten record on the line against a resurgent Dallas outfit, while Stephen Curry and the Warriors welcome the Lakers to San Francisco. We've taken a closer look at all three contests and picked out our best bets below.
NBA Betting Tips: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Today's NBA Best Bets
| Game |
Selection |
Odds |
| NYK @ PHI |
New York Knicks -1.5 |
$1.90 (1 unit) |
| HOU @ DAL |
Dallas Mavericks +6.5 |
$1.88 (2 units) |
| LAL @ GSW |
Golden State Warriors Win |
$2.12 (1.5 units) |
New York Knicks vs Philadelphia 76ers
Saturday, October 31 | 10:30am AEDT
Philadelphia have made an encouraging start to the new season, winning four of their opening five games and establishing themselves among the early Eastern Conference contenders. The 76ers returned to winning ways with a 114-109 victory over Indiana on Wednesday, with Tyrese Maxey scoring 17 of his 27 points in the final quarter to lead the comeback. Joel Embiid added 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Jaylen Brown and LeBron James continue to provide Philadelphia with additional scoring and playmaking options. The Sixers also claimed a 106-100 victory over New York on opening night, giving them plenty of confidence heading into this rematch.
New York have endured a less convincing start to their championship defence, although consecutive victories over Detroit and Chicago suggest the Knicks are beginning to find their rhythm. They followed a 111-97 victory over the Pistons with a 133-127 win against the Bulls, demonstrating the offensive potential of a roster that remains largely unchanged from last season's title-winning campaign. Jalen Brunson continues to lead the offence, while Karl-Anthony Towns provides an important scoring presence both inside and beyond the arc. The Knicks have struggled for consistency defensively, but their familiarity with one another and championship experience should make them increasingly difficult to beat as the season progresses.
Philadelphia deserve respect after their opening-night victory, but there are reasons to expect a much closer contest this time around. The Knicks have begun to find their offensive rhythm and should benefit from having already faced the Sixers this season, particularly when it comes to defending Philadelphia's star-studded rotation. New York also possess the personnel to attack Embiid away from the basket through Towns, while Brunson's ability to control the tempo could prove important in the closing stages. The Sixers have the advantage of home court, but the Knicks are showing signs of improvement and look capable of turning the tables. We'll take New York with the narrow start.
Our NBA Tip
New York Knicks -1.5
$1.90 (1 Unit)
Houston Rockets vs Dallas Mavericks
Saturday, October 31 | 11:00am AEDT
Dallas return home with growing confidence after making an encouraging start to the season under new coach Dusty May. The Mavericks improved to 3-2 with a commanding 120-96 victory over Oklahoma City on Wednesday, continuing to exceed expectations against a difficult opening schedule. Cooper Flagg has quickly established himself as the centrepiece of Dallas's future, while the return of Kyrie Irving has provided the Mavericks with another elite offensive option. Their improved chemistry and willingness to compete defensively have been particularly encouraging, although injuries to Dereck Lively II and several rotation players continue to test their depth.
Houston have been one of the NBA's standout teams through the opening week, winning their first five games and establishing themselves as a genuine Western Conference contender. The Rockets produced arguably their most impressive performance on Wednesday, dismantling Milwaukee 132-100 despite missing several important players. Fred VanVleet led the way with 24 points, while Amen Thompson contributed 23 as Houston demonstrated its impressive offensive depth. The Rockets currently rank among the league leaders in offensive efficiency and three-point shooting, connecting on more than 40 per cent of their attempts from beyond the arc. However, Alperen Sengun and Marcus Smart remain questionable, while Steven Adams and Reed Sheppard have been ruled out.
Houston deserve favouritism given their unbeaten start, but a 6.5-point handicap looks generous against a Dallas side that has already demonstrated its ability to trouble quality opposition. The Mavericks will also be motivated by their 128-110 defeat to Houston in the opening week, and their recent victory over Oklahoma City suggests they are capable of producing a much more competitive performance. Irving and Flagg provide Dallas with enough offensive firepower to remain within striking distance, particularly if Houston's injury concerns continue to limit its rotation. The Rockets may ultimately have too much quality, but we're expecting a closer contest than the market suggests and will take the Mavericks with the points.
Our NBA Tip
Dallas Mavericks +6.5
$1.88 (2 Units)
Los Angeles Lakers vs Golden State Warriors
Saturday, October 31 | 1:00pm AEDT
Golden State return to Chase Center following consecutive road victories, including an impressive 119-114 win over Minnesota on Wednesday. Stephen Curry was outstanding against the Timberwolves, finishing with a season-high 44 points while connecting on all 16 of his free-throw attempts. Rookie Yaxel Lendeborg continued his impressive introduction to the NBA with another 26 points, becoming the first Warriors rookie since Curry to score at least 25 points in three consecutive games. The Warriors have struggled for consistency through their opening five games, but their recent performances suggest they are beginning to find some momentum. Injuries remain a concern, however, with Jimmy Butler, Moses Moody and Kristaps Porzingis all unavailable.
The Lakers have enjoyed an impressive start to the campaign, winning four of their first five games and establishing themselves among the early Western Conference leaders. They recorded a comfortable 103-87 victory over the Clippers on Wednesday despite being without Luka Doncic, who missed the contest with a back problem. Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler have been important contributors during the opening week, providing Los Angeles with valuable scoring and interior presence. The Lakers also claimed a convincing 127-105 victory over Golden State in their season opener, although replicating that result on the road could prove considerably more difficult. Doncic's back injury remains the major concern, with the superstar listed as unavailable for this contest.
Golden State will be determined to avenge its opening-night defeat, and the absence of Doncic significantly improves the Warriors' chances of doing exactly that. Curry enters the contest in outstanding form and should be able to put considerable pressure on the Lakers' perimeter defence, particularly with his ability to generate scoring opportunities both on and off the ball. Los Angeles have demonstrated they can win without their superstar, but Golden State's home-court advantage and improving offensive rhythm make this a difficult assignment. With Curry coming off a 44-point performance and the Warriors building momentum, we're backing Golden State to secure the victory and continue its recent resurgence.
Our NBA Tip
Golden State Warriors to Win
$2.12 (1.5 Units)
Odds quoted at time of writing and subject to change. Confirm bookmaker prices and final team availability before placing a bet. 18+ Gamble Responsibly.
