Are Lakers players holding secret group workouts at Staples Center replica?

“In regards to the Lakers, I’ve heard similar things,” Redick said. “Obviously, nothing’s been posted on social media supplying us with the evidence we need. But there is a gentleman, I think his house is in Bel Air, who has a Staples Center replica in his backyard. It’s a full court, locker room, weight room, steam, shower, whatever you want. I’ve worked out there before. My assumption is those guys are working out there.”

Remember, this is only a rumor. There’s absolutely no evidence that this is happening, and all we have is some hearsay from two fairly well-connected figures in Simmons and Redick. It would also be illegal if these are group workouts — the NBA has prohibited those at the moment, whether they’re at team facilities or a private facility. We’ve heard that James is working out with one or two teammates at a private facility, so perhaps this is that facility.

The home in question is owned by sneaker mogul Steven Jackson, the chairman of retro shoe brand L.A. Gear. The replica court is obsessively detailed, and even includes imitation Lakers championship banners. Various NBA teams have worked out there over the years. The Miami Heat did so in 2011 in preparation for a game against the Clippers, when James was a member of the team. 

Sadly, pictures of the place are almost impossible to come by, but it’s pretty clear that teams and players have been working out there — and raving about it — for many years. 

We do know one thing for sure: Wherever it’s happening, LeBron is definitely playing regularly.