Things Could Get Rough in the Battle for LA

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The Battle for LA continues on Wednesday between the red-hot Clippers and the Lakers, who´ve thus far been a Staples Center opponent killing machine with home record of 22-5. Although the Lakers will be dawning away jerseys, the game will still have a home feel to it. The Clippers have sliced and diced their last 6 opponents. Their last victims were the Dallas Mavericks, whom they Clippers blew out by 19 in a 94-75 Maverick massacre. Before Dallas, the Clippers pasted the Jazz, Blazers, Suns, Hornets, and Grizzlies. The Clippers current winning streak is the longest the string of victories that the franchise has had in 20 years.

 

The Lakers and Clippers have virtually identical records at (33-20) and (31-21) for the latter. It is probable that the Lakers will be without Andrew Bynum against the Clippers. Bynum, who´s been the Center of a storm of controversy of his own making, sprained his ankle. Bynum caused a stir by hoisting up a 3 pointer in a recent game and was subsequently benched. He then went on to sprain his ankle the next time out of action and did not play against New Jersey.  Additionally, Bynum has been very vocal publicly about his displeasures with  1st year Lakers Coach Mike Brown´s new style.

 

With Bynum out, the Clippers should have no problems carving the Lakers up on the interior. Look for Clippers C Dieandre Jordan to take advantage as well as NBA Superstar PF Blake Griffin; who is almost certain to make a whole bunch of Sports Center highlights in the Battle for LA. The Lakers meanwhile, will need a lot of points from the Usual Suspect Kobe Bryant but will also need points from Gasol, World Peace, and either Ramon Sessions or Matt Barnes to make up for Bynum´s missing point production. Chris Paul will also be a huge factor in this game and he has the talent advantage over his counterpart in Sessions, so Sessions is going to have to work over time.

 

With the Playoffs visible on the horizon, this game is very significant for both teams. The game is also one of great significance to the city of Los Angeles, which is now the proud home of two potential legitimate NBA title contenders. A loss here for the Lakeshow will narrow the margin they hold over the Clippers in the pacific Conference.

 

Should the Clippers hold the Lakers under 95 points, it is most likely that they will win. The Clippers are an ASTOUNDING 23-4 when holding opponents under 95.

 

This one should be a good one but look for the Clippers to be extra energized because they are looking to pave the road to becoming the new order in Los Angeles. Expect huge games from 24, Blake, and CP3.

 

Enjoy!.