For the first time in NBA history, both the Lakers and the Clippers have realistic chances to compete for an NBA title this upcoming year. For so long, it was the Lakers who dominated the city of Los Angeles and brought home championships. Over the past 6 years or so, the Clippers have been the better team record wise, but have yet to even make a conference championship series. This year, both teams have expectations not only to make the finals, but to win the whole thing. The basketball capital of the world for 2019-20 is Los Angeles, and all basketball fans are going to be tuned in. What team is going to win the battle of LA? Let’s dive into some deeper analysis.
The Lakers, the franchise known for its prestige, its winning, will be lead by LeBron James and newcomer Anthony Davis, who was acquired by the Lakers from the New Orleans Pelicans in June of this year. Having not made the playoffs since 2013, Lakers fans are excited about the possibility of a return to glory. The supporting cast around their two superstars is a little all over the place. Kyle Kuzma believes he can be the third star on the team, but he needs to show improvement after an up and down second season. Danny Green, whom the Lakers signed during free agency in July, might be the perfect player to play alongside not only LeBron, but AD as well. Then theres wildcards almost all the way down the roster. Can Rajon Rondo play defense anymore? Avery Bradley hasn’t been good in two years, can he bounce back? Dwight Howard? on the Lakers again? They have a-lot of questions that need to be answered.
For the Clippers, their roster has fewer problems to solve. They won 48 games last season and made the playoffs, and in the summer acquired not just one, but two superstars in Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. It was the dream summer everyone wanted but only the Clippers could cash in on. The supporting cast around Kawhi and PG are a little more refined than the Lakers. These players have clear roles and is something you can identify pretty easily. I would say if there’s one thing the Clippers need, it’s another ball handler for their bench. Other than that, it’s hard to spot real weaknesses on their team that I believe a team can expose during the playoffs.
There’s a lot of factors to consider before making a conclusion about these two LA teams. Paul George is out until at least November due to surgeries on both shoulders. The Lakers have an outstanding schedule to start out the years and it wouldn’t surprise me in the least to see them win at least 15 of their first 20 games. For the Clippers, it might be a slower process incorporating Kawhi and Paul George. Nonetheless, these two teams will be battling out for Western Conference and city supremecy come April and May.
Here’s a look at the Lakers roster
For the Clippers
JB Sports Talk 