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The NBA sensation expressed serious apprehensions about the special NBA Cup basketball floor at the Los Angeles Lakers' downtown stadium, labeling it “unsafe” and “risky”.

Dončić was much happier, however, with his team's cohesion and grit after Jaxson Hayes defended him during a late-game skirmish with opponent Kris Dunn – and Dončić intends to reimburse the penalty Hayes incurred for the resulting technical foul.

Key Moments

Dončić produced an remarkable game with 43 points, 13 assists, and nine rebounds during the commanding triumph over the Clippers on Tuesday, nearly missing his 10th career 40-point triple-double achievement.

LA's winning streak extension became tense toward the end when the opponent shoved Dončić to the ground with a hit to the rear. Dončić rose and faced the other player, who shoved the ball into his chest. Hayes retaliated with a forceful push of the opponent, who made an effort to fight back with a swing at Hayes' head while officials and colleagues broke up the altercation.

“It’s on me,” Dončić said. “I thanked him immediately for backing me up. That’s exactly what I appreciate in this squad. Each player stands up for their teammates.”

History of Tension

The two players have before been involved in several game-time confrontations.

• Both players were given technical penalties for a vocal run-in when Dončić’s Dallas Mavericks faced the Jazz in late 2023.
• He glared him away when Dunn was removed from a Clippers-Mavericks game in December 2024.
• Dunn seemed to hurt the star with a trip from behind when the Lakers met the LA Clippers last March.

Tuesday’s confrontation concluded with the opponent’s removal for two technical fouls.

“While going for a rebound, I was struck from behind,” Luka commented. “I’m not going to just stand it. I’m not scared of anyone. I won’t stand by and allow it. ... That’s what the game is about. There will be physical moments. Plenty of trash talk occurs. That’s what drives me, and I relish it.”

Playing Surface Issues

The contest was staged on the LA's yellow version of the unique courts used across the league for tournament games – but the player was concerned about safety.

“The courts need adjusting,” Dončić said after praising the setup of the tournament, now in its third year. “It’s just slippery. It’s dangerous ... There were multiple slips. Several athletes struggled with traction. That’s unsafe, honestly.”

The game was the LA's opening Cup game at home this campaign after beginning group play with a pair of away matches. He admitted he couldn’t remember whether the courts in NOLA and Memphis’ venue were less grippy than standard.

“Since they’re fresh surfaces, they’re difficult,” Dončić commented. “A few games ... should help break them in.”

Player Reactions

Complaints about the distinctive courts are a recurring issue. Celtics’ Jaylen Brown stated he hurt his groin while playing on the Toronto Raptors’ NBA Cup court in last year, and fellow competitors have commented on the hazards of playing on new hardwood.

LeBron James said he observed “several players” struggling on the court during the game, but didn’t feel it was unsafe himself.

Seasonal Success

The team secured their pool and earned a place in the tournament’s next round with their win. It’s an exciting development for Luka, who understands the format of in-season events in a way his American colleagues may not.

“I think I never got past the group stage, so it’s something new for me,” Luka said. “I participated in similar events in Spain, so I enjoy it.”

When told he had secured at least fifty-three thousand dollars with the team’s group win, Luka, who has nearly $200 million in professional salary, smiled.

“Naturally, I’ll take the cash,” Luka quipped.