Opening nights game gave views the introducing we’ve been waiting months to see with the Lakers and Clippers alike making moves that could have lasting effects for each franchise. Even if it was a sample of the 82 games both teams will play, the new-look Clippers got the edge Tuesday night.
The reigning Finals MVP led the way with 30 points, in 32 minutes to bring the Clippers a statement win. Going into last night’s game without one half of their big two in Paul George, many expected the Lakers to take home the victory but with the tenacious defense of Patrick Beverly and co.
Photo credit: Robert Gauthier, Los Angeles Times
The narrative of a rivalry has been heavily discussed leading up to this opening night match, the Clippers have brushed aside any discussion of a competition between the two teams. As they say, actions do speak louder than words. Leonard and New Balance came out with an ad that declared L.A. “his city.” Also, The “L.A. Our Way” banner that they unfurl above the arena signage outside spoke volumes.
“It’s the first game,” LeBron said. “The NBA is back, so everyone wants to have the narrative of a rivalry game and a huge test. Both teams are not who they want to be. … It’s not a rivalry.”
So what did we learn after last night’s game? Well, not much it’s just one game and both teams have to hammer something out. The Clippers looked as if they’ll be fine while waiting for Paul George to come back, who’s recovering from shoulder injuries.
The Lakers, on the other hand, need to find a starting point guard fast. Lebron James did run the offense from the point guard position. The offense was stagnant at points of the game where James would dribble, dribble, dribble, then kick out to a shooter or throw the ball to Anthony Davis on the elbow and in the post. James did look a little rusty with 18 points on 7/19 shooting, mind you that James didn’t partake in the preseason. in the words of TNT analysis Reggie Miller, give James about 10 games to knock off the rust. The addition of Danny Green was a very valuable one as he led his team in scoring and without him, we may have a completely different game.
Maurice Harkless of the Clippers drove past Anthony Davis, right, and Dwight Howard. Photo Credit Harry How, Getty Images
“We have a lot of room to improve,” LeBron James said. “We’re a new group that’s coming together. We have a new coaching staff. We have a new system.”
The Lakers could fix their offense within the next few games, as their chemistry builds, but there are two acquisitions the team could make to give themselves more firepower off the bench. Big Three MVP Joe Johnson and one of the greatest sixth man to play the game, Jamal Crawford. Joe Johnson has proven he’s more than capable of still playing at a good level and with his addition to the second unit while James is on the bench the amount of scoring wouldn’t take a major dip. The same could be said about Crawford who still has an elite handle and can get anywhere on the floor he pleases. It may not be ideal to fill your roster with aging stars but one or both of these players could bring value to the team.
The next time these two teams meet will be for their Christmas match up, it means the Lakers will have Kyle Kuzma back, while the Clippers get to take joy in the fact that they did this without Paul George. These teams could change a lot from now until Christmas and we may have an idea of where the Lakers and Clippers are headed.
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