Lakers to Use Regular Court for NBA Cup Game After Surface Issues
The Los Angeles Lakers will play Friday night's NBA Cup game against the Dallas Mavericks on their traditional court after concerns about the slippery surface of the special NBA Cup-themed court. Following complaints from players including Luka Dončić, who described the alternative court as 'dangerous,' league technicians examined the surface and deemed it unplayable. The Lakers, who have already clinched a quarterfinal spot with a 3-0 record in group play, can secure home court advantage in the next round with a victory over Dallas.
The Los Angeles Lakers will return to their traditional playing surface for Friday night's NBA Cup matchup against the Dallas Mavericks after significant concerns emerged about the safety and playability of the special NBA Cup-themed court. The decision comes following player complaints about the slippery conditions of the bright yellow alternative court used earlier this week.
Surface Safety Concerns Prompt Change
According to ESPN reports, the decision to switch courts came after Dallas Mavericks star Luka Dončić expressed serious concerns about the playing surface following Tuesday's game. Dončić went as far as calling the court "dangerous" to play on, highlighting the significant safety issues players faced during competition.
Lakers forward Rui Hachimura echoed these concerns, stating after the team's 135-118 victory over the LA Clippers: "That was bad. I felt it right away when I was warming up. It just felt weird. Just like oily, slippery. Everybody was on the floor, literally." The widespread player feedback prompted immediate action from league officials and team management.
League Investigation and Technical Assessment
Technicians from the league's court vendor conducted a thorough examination of the NBA Cup court and officially deemed it unplayable for Friday's crucial matchup. The assessment confirmed player concerns about the surface conditions, leading to the decision to revert to the Lakers' traditional court for the important group stage finale.
The vendor is expected to make necessary repairs to the NBA Cup court, with plans to have it available should the Lakers host an NBA Cup quarterfinal game at Crypto.com Arena. This suggests that while the immediate safety concerns have been addressed, the league remains committed to using the special courts for the tournament's later stages once proper adjustments are made.
Playoff Implications and Team Performance
The Lakers enter Friday's game with significant momentum, having already clinched a spot in the NBA Cup quarterfinals with a perfect 3-0 record in group play. Their performance in the tournament has been impressive, and the team now has an opportunity to secure home court advantage in the quarterfinals with a victory over the Mavericks.
The court change eliminates what could have been a significant variable in this important matchup. By returning to their familiar playing surface, both teams can focus on basketball strategy rather than adapting to unusual court conditions. This decision ensures a level playing field for what promises to be a competitive game with substantial tournament implications.
