New Star in Tinseltown
Preseason hoops tipped off tonight in Los Angeles with a matchup between the Lakers and the Clippers. As they go head to head, a familiar face is now in a Clippers Uniform. Almost two weeks ago, Chris Paul was traded from New Orleans to the Lakers in a blockbuster deal, later to be rescinded by Commisioner David Stern who happens to be the owner of the Hornets. In just a matter of a week, a trade offer made from the Clippers was rejected by the commisioner, then later accepted. Paul made his debut tonight in the Clippers uniform
Much has been thought about the Lakers reign coming to an end due to the new and exciting team that shares the same building as them. L.A. is and will always be known as a Lakers town, but the Clips took strides into showing they will be a force to be reckoned with. Philips Arena in Atlanta has been known as the highlight factory, arguably the Staples Center can be put in the conversation for the new Highlight Factory. Paul gave the playing style the nickname of “Lob City” with the idea of him looking to find Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan who had the most and second most number of dunks in the league last season,
The much anticipated matchup tonight did not disappoint. The first half was back and forth with both teams executing big plays. Jordan had some monsterous dunks as well as two Top Play style alleyoops. Lakers were moving the ball around showing their flash. Andrew Bynum was a force down low and Kobe Bryant was doing his normal slashing and jump shooting. Clippers had a 56-50 lead at the half.
Third quarter more times than not is the difference in the game. The team that has the best quarter usually positions themselves better to be victorious. Lakers had nine turnovers and were outscored 36-17. Clips bench made a statement with there hustle and tenacity. With the game out of reach by middle of the forth, LAC starters remain on the bench to watch the reserves give up the big lead. By the buzzer sound, the Clips were victorious with a 114-95 victory. Chris Paul lead with 17 points, nine assist, seven rebounds, and five steals. Billups adds 23 points going nine for nine from the charity stripe. Kobe bean was LAL’s leading scorer with 22 points and four assist and Bynum logged in 15 points and 12 rebounds. Both teams will play again on Wednesday December 21, 2011 for a Clippers home game.