In a dramatic and embarrassing pre-game scramble, the Los Angeles Lakers were compelled to dismantle their brand-new basketball court mere hours before a crucial NBA Cup fixture against the Dallas Mavericks. The decision came after the specialised tournament surface was declared 'unplayable' and unsafe by league officials.
A Slippery Situation Unfolds
The crisis began when technicians from the league's official court vendor conducted routine tests and made a shocking discovery. The painted court failed multiple traction and moisture assessments, with the surface coating leaving behind a concerning, oily residue. This confirmed the fears voiced by players earlier in the week, who had publicly criticised the court's hazardous conditions.
Superstar Luka Doncic was among the most vocal critics following the Lakers' win over the LA Clippers. 'Adjust the courts, please. It's just slippery. It's dangerous,' Doncic had pleaded. 'I slipped a lot of times. You could see a lot of players slipped. That's dangerous, man.' His teammate, Rui Hachimura, supported these claims, describing the experience as 'weird' and confirming that 'everybody was literally on the floor like every second.'
Chaotic Build-Up to a Commanding Victory
Faced with an unplayable surface, the only viable solution was a complete last-minute overhaul. Crews worked frantically to rip up the defective court, reverting to the team's traditional, trusted hardwood for the NBA Cup clash. The faulty court has since been packed up and shipped back to the vendor for urgent repairs.
Despite the significant disruption, the Lakers displayed remarkable focus once the game was underway. On the safe, familiar court, Austin Reaves exploded for a game-high 38 points and 8 rebounds, leading his team to a 129-119 victory. Luka Doncic tormented his former team with a powerful double-double, finishing with 35 points and 11 assists, while Deandre Ayton contributed 17 points and 8 rebounds.
Securing a Perfect Group Record
The Mavericks fought valiantly, with P.J. Washington Jr. scoring 22 points and Ryan Nembhard adding 17, but they were ultimately unable to contain the Lakers' high-powered offence in the final quarter. This important win ensures the Lakers finish the NBA Cup Group Play with a perfect record, successfully securing a home quarterfinal tie and overcoming an extraordinary off-court challenge.
