TITLE: Redick Points to $53,000 Prize as Lakers Punch Ticket to Emirates NBA Cup Knockout Stage
SLUG: redick-points-to-53000-prize-as-lakers-advance-in-emirates-nba-cup
CONTENT:
The Los Angeles Lakers locked up first place in Group B of the Emirates NBA Cup on Tuesday night by defeating the L.A. Clippers and improving to 3-0 in the tournament.
After the win at Crypto.com Arena, head coach JJ Redick said the in-season competition carries a straightforward incentive for his roster and staff: the championship bonus.
“I mean, $53,000 is a lot of money. It just is,” Redick told reporters. “So I’m sure there’s some extra motivation. Coaches get to split a share; I think the head coach might get a full share—I don’t know. So it’s motivation, for sure.”
The NBA introduced the Cup last season, but the Lakers failed to advance beyond group play. Redick, hired in the offseason, now has the club one step from the quarterfinals and a shot at the cash reward set aside for Cup champions.
While the bonus may be modest for maximum-salary stars, it represents a significant windfall for two-way players, end-of-bench contributors and assistant coaches whose contracts are far smaller.
Meanwhile, Lakers guard Luka Dončić voiced concern about the specially painted courts used for Cup games, noting increased slipping and urging the league to address the issue.
The knockout round begins next month, with the Lakers already assured a place in the bracket.
Source: Lakers Nation
