The first round of NBA Cup games are this week, with the defending-champion Lakers squaring off against the Spurs in San Antonio Friday night.

The NBA never seems to want to stop reinventing itself. For years, there’s been talk of adding a new competition to the league, primarily aimed at making November and December games more exciting – a period when the initial thrill of the season has faded and the playoffs and trade deadline still feel far off.

The Lakers played some of their best basketball on the way to the inaugural NBA Cup title last season, and new coach JJ Redick doesn’t expect their approach or motivation to change this year.

Rui Hachimura gave a hilariously honest answer when asked about the Lakers' motivation heading into the NBA Cup.

The Lakers have had a mixed start to their season, currently holding a 6-4 record. LeBron James, in his 21st NBA season, continues to defy age, averaging 25.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game,

Give the Los Angeles Lakers credit. While even in the early season some NBA teams just aren't that worthy of much discussion, the Lakers have a special knack fo