What happened: The Los Angeles Lakers opened NBA Cup West Group C competition Friday night in a nationally broadcast matchup. Los Angeles entered tournament action seeking a fourth consecutive win following a 116-103 road victory Wednesday.

Why it matters: Tournament group play decides seeding and eight quarterfinal berths under the NBA Cup format. Los Angeles entered the slate holding early regular-season positioning near the top of the Western Conference table.

What to watch: Group C standings will settle over four designated tournament dates before knockout play begins in December.