Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra believes that the design of the Cleveland Cavaliers’ sideline was a contributing factor to Dru Smith’s knee injury during the first half of Wednesday’s game. Despite the injury, Smith is expected to travel with the team to New York for Saturday’s game against the Knicks.
Spoelstra expressed his concern about the Cavaliers’ court design, emphasizing that it played a role in Smith’s injury. The incident occurred as Smith was making a defensive closeout in the corner, attempting to block a shot in front of the Cavs bench.
Spoelstra pointed out that the slightly elevated court caused Smith to land at a lower level, describing it as a “dangerous floor.” He mentioned previous near scares in similar situations and expressed relief that this was the first actual injury.
“This is a hazardous floor.” I’m not sure about the injury history here, but we’ve had a few of close calls in prior years when men are closing out in that area. Fortunately, no one has been hurt yet, but it’s an accident waiting to happen. You close out, and then you’re falling off a cliff. It’s simply too hazardous. We all knew that was what happened as soon as he stayed down.”
Dru Smith injured on coaches clipboard pic.twitter.com/5BJc7UbKjt
— Bones (@Bones4y) November 23, 2023
Spoelstra stated that they would conduct a scan to assess the extent of Smith’s injury once they arrive in New York. He underscored the potential danger of the court design, describing it as an accident waiting to happen. Spoelstra believes the injury could have been avoided if the game had taken place in a different arena.
As the team prepares to evaluate Smith’s condition in New York, Spoelstra acknowledged Smith’s mental toughness and deemed the injury unfortunate, particularly given the circumstances of an effort play. He emphasized that if the court had been normal, such an incident would likely not have occurred.