As the battle for LA continued, the opener tonight at Staples Center was nothing less than just that. With the debut of the Clippers’ new coach, Doc Rivers, and the Kobe-less purple and gold squad; it was up to the youngsters and their rebuilt, energized bench to lead the team to victory.
Although the Lakers are historically known for their cross-country rivalry with the green men, the Boston Celtics, since the days of Hall of Famers like Ervin “Magic” Johnson and Larry Bird; their inner city bickering has given such rivalry a new age run for its money as the Clippers made a bold move to hold their own just days before opening night.
Hanging player banners over the 16 Laker championships may have been a statement tactic, but after Tuesday night’s explosive performance by the fresh look Laker squad including Xavier Henry’s 22 points, 6 rebounds and returning LA native- Jordan Farmar’s 16 points, 5 rebound night; the only statement being made was the one stamped in purple and gold as they went on to defeat the Clippers 116-103.
Gasol, now back to his true center position, also made a big contribution to the inside post game for the Lakers as his put in 11 of his 15 points in the first quarter; including a crowd electrifying 3 pointer, while also cleaning up the scraps-scooping a nice 13 boards to start his season off right with a double double.
The Lakers are now 5-0 in opening night games without Kobe Bryant, as they put in an all around team effort to go into Oakland tomorrow night with a fresh season renewed confidence.
Lakers @ Golden State starts tomorrow at 7:30 Pacific.
Stay tuned for more, this is Point Blank Sports!
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