UPDATE: The Los Angeles Lakers will utilize their traditional court for tonight’s critical NBA Cup matchup against the Dallas Mavericks, following urgent determinations from league technicians regarding the unplayability of their alternate Cup court. This decision comes ahead of the game scheduled for December 8, 2023, as players expressed safety concerns over the slippery conditions of the court used in their recent victory against the Clippers.
Earlier this week, both Luka Doncic and Rui Hachimura voiced their concerns about the hazardous playing surface. Doncic stated, “It’s just slippery. I slipped a lot of times… that’s dangerous, man.” Hachimura echoed these sentiments, stating, “That was bad. I felt it right away. It just felt weird. Like oily, slippery.” The Lakers’ arena staff is currently addressing the issues, with plans to have the court repaired for potential quarterfinal play on December 9 or December 10.
Tonight’s game against the Mavericks is pivotal as it wraps up the Lakers’ group play in the NBA Cup tournament. The team is eager to secure a strong position heading into the knockout stages, emphasizing the importance of a reliable court for the safety and performance of all players involved.
Fans and players alike are looking forward to a safe and competitive environment as the Lakers aim to leverage their home-court advantage. The switch to the traditional court aims to eliminate the risks posed by the earlier surface, ensuring that players can perform at their best without the threat of injury.
Stay tuned for more developments as the situation unfolds and the Lakers continue their pursuit of the NBA Cup.
