The Los Angeles Lakers decided to play the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Cup quarterfinal on the regular court following Luka Doncic’s ‘dangerous’ statement.
The Lakers have chosen to play Spurs on their regular floor in the NBA Cup quarterfinals at Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday, putting player safety first. Following players’ complaints about the court’s slick surface during the Lakers’ November 25 NBA Cup group stage against the Los Angeles Clippers, the Lakers’ alternate court for the in-season event will not be utilized. Luka Doncic said it was ‘dangerous’ while others said it was ‘unplayable’.
On November 28, the Purple and Gold played their last group stage match against the Dallas Mavericks on their normal floor. Doncic expressed satisfaction with the decision and thanked the NBA and the Lakers for paying attention to their worries.
“They did us a favor. I was talking about it, so I really appreciate both of them, just changing the court and giving us (a chance to) stay healthy,” said the five-time All-Star, as quoted by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.
After taking home the first NBA Cup trophy in 2023, the Lakers are vying for their second championship. They advanced to the quarterfinals by winning 4-0 in West Group B during the group round. They recently defeated the Philadelphia 76ers thanks to a clutch performance from LeBron James.
This is the second meeting between the Spurs and the Lakers this season. Doncic scored 35 points to help Los Angeles win the opening face-off on November 6, 118-116. The Oklahoma City Thunder and Phoenix Suns winner in the opposite bracket will play the winner on Wednesday.