Lakers vs Clippers Rivalry – Decades long of Fight for Home
Posted: February 7, 2020
Updated: February 7, 2020
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Los Angeles city’s two favorites- Lakers and Clippers
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2 of the best teams in the NBA is sharing the same arena
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Playoff predictions- who will advance to the finals?
Ever since the team owner Bob Short has decided to move the team to Los Angeles, thus becoming the first West Coast team, LA has been home to Lakers. The Staples Center has been modeled specifically for the Lakers with purple and golden seats and court. For a long time, the Clippers have been nothing but a mere acquaintance to the Staples Center. However, now these two teams alone have the 4 of the top 10 NBA players. The online sportsbooks in the USA are assuming that the Lakers vs Clippers rivalry is becoming more sustainable.
Ever since Kobe has retired, Lakers have been struggling to continue the legacy. The Clippers, on the other hand, were enjoying the success of star players. The likes of Blake Griffin, Chris Paul, and DeAndre Jordan were of huge help. Only when the team has gotten Lebron James in exchange for a handful of young players, they have started to get back on track. Now with Lebron James, Anthony Davis, and Kyle Kuzma, they have the winning odds of +310, highest only after Milwaukee Bucks.
Even though Clippers have never been into the finals before, it’s not unlikely to see Lakers and Clippers rivalry in the playoffs this year. Kawhi Leonard has agreed to join the team after leading Toronto Raptors into their first championship last year. Teamed up with Paul George and Lou Williams he has a +333 betting odds in the finals according to Bet365.
Los Angeles’ favorite – the Lakers
The majority of the LA residents favor Lakers over Clippers. It certainly is no surprise since Lakers are now celebrating their 60th year in the same city. For decades, they have been one of the best teams in NBA with the longest winning streaks in playoffs. However, Clippers have successfully sold out their games and filled the arena several times too.
The real legacy of the Lakers has begun in 1979 when they have drafted Magic Johnson. He has helped the Lakers win several championships and won quite a lot of titles himself. Later known as a hero to many and one of the most inspiring players of basketball history, he was one of the most valuable players in the team.
The great Lakers’ legacy didn’t end even when Magic Johnson has retired in 1991. He has made this decision when he was diagnosed HIV positive. Kobe Bryant has become his successor in no time and has won three consecutive finals from 2000 to 2002 teaming up with Shaq O’Neal.
Clippers and Lakers have finally came to the same level
With this history and tradition, it was hard for the Clippers to win the loyalty of the LA. The fact that they have been the last team of the western conference for the first few years of the LA residence was no help either. They had a record of 12-70 in the 86-87 season which is the second-worst in the NBA history. They were playing in the Staples Arena at 12.30 pm, under the jerseys of the retired players of the Lakers. Until recently, the franchise was struggling to succeed. However, the drafts and changes they have made in 1999 and 2000 have successfully turned them into a playoff-worthy team.
Even though they have succeeded getting into the playoffs they have never been to the Finals, thus won a championship. The history and success of the Lakers are just too big that it’s hard to compare for the fans.
Where to watch the Lakers vs Clippers game
In the history of the NBA, the Clippers and Lakers have played 195 games against each other. But they have never played in the playoffs, which is highly likely to happen this year. Their stats are going side by side as of today, and it’s safe to say that they have both secured their places in the playoffs.
The Monday game has been postponed due to the tragic events happened to the former NBA star and basketball icon Kobe Bryant.
The players of Bet365 are able to stream Lakers vs Clippers game live on their devices while enjoying the betting predictions given by the site. If the teams do compete in the playoffs, there’s no doubt that it would be a series you wouldn’t want to miss.