Doncic Criticizes NBA Cup Court While Praising Lakers for Support During Late-Game Clash with Dunn

Luka Doncic expressed concerns following the Lakers’ recent victory over the Los Angeles Clippers, highlighting issues with the special NBA Cup court at the Lakers’ arena. He described the court as “slippery” and “dangerous,” raising alarms about player safety during games.

Doncic’s Performance and Team Spirit

Despite the court conditions, Doncic showcased an impressive performance with 43 points, 13 assists, and 9 rebounds, just short of achieving his 10th career 40-point triple-double. He praised the Lakers’ camaraderie, especially Jaxson Hayes, who defended him during a late-game incident with Kris Dunn. Doncic committed to paying Hayes’ fine for a technical foul incurred during the confrontation.

Concerns Over Court Safety

After the game, Doncic urged a review of the NBA Cup courts, stating, “Adjust the courts, please. It’s just slippery. It’s dangerous.” Although he appreciated the NBA Cup format, he mentioned that many players experienced slips during the game, making the playing conditions questionable.

• Doncic’s reaction: “I slipped a lot of times.”
• Previous player complaints: Jaylen Brown suffered an injury on the Toronto Raptors’ NBA Cup court in 2023.
• LeBron James noted that he observed some players struggling but did not find the court unsafe for himself.

Heated Moments During the Game

The game’s atmosphere turned tense during the fourth quarter when Dunn made a physical play against Doncic. This led to a confrontation, in which both players received technical fouls, culminating in Dunn’s ejection. Doncic expressed appreciation for Hayes intervening, saying, “Thanks for having my back.”

Previous Encounters

Doncic and Dunn’s rivalry extends beyond this game, having faced off multiple times before. Their history includes previous skirmishes, with both players being vocal during a past encounter, and Doncic confronting Dunn during a Clippers-Mavericks game last December.

Advancing in the NBA Cup

The Lakers’ victory secured their position in the NBA Cup quarterfinals, marking a promising milestone for Doncic. Reflecting on his experience, he noted, “I think I never got past the group stage, so it’s something new for me.”

As the Lakers progress in the tournament, Doncic’s excitement is palpable. He humorously acknowledged the financial reward that comes with their success, showing that he values both the competitive spirit and the perks of advancement in the NBA Cup.