On Sunday night against the Los Angeles Lakers, the LA Clippers came prepared and won by 14 points in Intuit Dome. This victorious effort adds to the absurd amount of dominance the Clippers have had over the Lakers throughout the last ten seasons.
Although he did not play in the final frame, franchise superstar Kawhi Leonard closed the night with 19 points and four assists, shooting 9-13 from the floor in 24 minutes. These numbers significantly differ from when Leonard first returned, backing up how close he is to reaching his peak.
Premiere scoring threat Norman Powell was fantastic as he attacked the Lakers when they were weakest. He prepared well and studied the film, which made it easier for him to score 22 points in 37 minutes.
However, the MVP of the night was star big man Ivica Zubac. The former Laker had something to prove, as Los Angeles traded him at age 21.
Zubac recorded 21 points, 19 rebounds, three blocks, and one steal for head coach Tyronn Lue and the Clippers. He was unstoppable against Anthony Davis, one of the NBA's premier defenders.
Overall, the Clippers played complimentary basketball from start to finish, as several others impacted the final result. This was a great way to extend a notable winning streak.
Conversely, before the game, NBA legend LeBron James made a comment that was captured on video. Given how the night ended, Clipper fans can do nothing but laugh at what the all-time scoring leader had to say.
LA Clipper fans hilariously laugh at the comments made by Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James.
As the LA Clippers recently packed their belongings and moved out of Crypto.com Arena, several teams are still experiencing Intuit Dome for the first time. Last night was the beginning for their long-time rival, the Los Angeles Lakers.
Furthermore, LeBron James walked through the away tunnel before the game and yelled, “Home game for us.” This implied the Lakers’ dominance over the Clippers, even though history says otherwise.
"Home game for us."
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 20, 2025
LeBron James prior to the Lakers' first game at Intuit Dome vs the Clippers last night 😭
(via @nicoleganglani)
pic.twitter.com/V35FPEOfjP
In addition to the Lakers’ loss, James shot 9-20 from the field, 2-6 from three, and turned the ball over five times. These numbers come off as pure satire for Clipper fans as they receive the joy of defeating one of the greatest players in NBA history.
That said, the Clippers proved a lesson to James and the Lakers. Before writing off the opposing team, it is crucial to wait for the final score.