Luka Doncic called the NBA Cup court ‘dangerous’ after the dominant victory
The Los Angeles Lakers he may be rolling with confidence after another commanding victory. however, Luka Dončić made it clear that something is far more important than statistics or on the scoreboard needs immediate attention: player safety.
After the Lakers’ 135-118 victory over the LA Clippers on Tuesday night, a performance in which Doncic erupted for 43 points, 13 assistsand 9 jumps, the superstar made an emphatic and unexpected request regarding the special NBA Cup court design used during tournament games.
“Adjust the pitches, please. It’s just slippery. It’s dangerous,” Doncic told reporters after the game, stressing that the conditions on the floor represented a risk for the players throughout the match.
Multiple moments throughout the game saw players lose their balance on cuts and drives, and Doncic’s frustration highlighted a growing concern around the league about the NBA Cup’s glossy floors created for broadcast visibility and branding.
Although his comments were urgent, his performance on the field showed dominance. Doncic scored a season-high 32 points in the first half and led an offensive barrage that overwhelmed the Clippers from start to finish.
His blend of deep shooting, physical scoring and elite playmaking energized the Lakers’ home crowd and extended the team’s winning streak to five straight, improving their season record to 13-4.
But even with another near-triple-double and some MVP-caliber basketball, Doncic insisted the safety issue overshadowed the excitement of the win.
The Lakers’ strong start and Doncic’s sensational early season production, averaging over 35 points per game, have put the Lakers firmly in the conversation with contenders. Still, Tuesday’s message wasn’t about momentum, position, or even the historic numbers he continues to pile up.
It was about preventing an avoidable problem from becoming serious.
And for the NBA, Doncic’s warning may be impossible to ignore.
2025-11-26 13:47:00
