Heat-Nets delayed 31 minutes due to Barclays Center's leaky roof

Basketball games are supposed to be largely unaffected by the elements, but the truth is that nature often intrudes on the NBA's plans. Apart from the fact that serious storms can block various modes of transportation, we sometimes see the power go out, or air-conditioners malfunction, or even small animals get onto or around the court. We are only safe until we discover otherwise.

The Brooklyn Nets and Miami Heat found that out under unfortunate circumstances during Tuesday night's game at Barclays Center. After a Luol Deng three-pointer with 1:47 left in the first quarter, referees stopped the game due to a leak in the roof. As water dropped onto the court, various arena staff attempted to protect the court and get to the bottom of the problem:

The game was delayed for a lengthy 31 minutes before the leak was stopped. Arena officials eventually explained the problem:

When the game restarted, things didn't get much better for Brooklyn — the Nets eventually lost 95-91 to fall to 10-13. It doesn't appear that the team's poor fortunes this season can be solved with a few towels and a bucket.

- - - - - - -

Eric Freeman is a writer for Ball Don't Lie on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at efreeman_ysports@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!

Follow @FreemanEric