Often, the existence of teams in one city makes way for a rivalry. The LeBron James-led Los Angeles Lakers and LA Clippers are no different. What started with games back in the 70s ultimately grew into a rivalry when the Clippers moved to LA from San Diego.
Despite the growing rivalry, the Lakers seem to have maintained an upper hand. The team has 17 NBA titles to its name, while the Clippers are yet to reach the league finals. However, one cannot overlook the fans and popularity both teams command.
John Wall on the Battle of LA:
"Battle? Whatever they call it, I think the Clippers haven't lost in… what? The last 8 times? If I'm not mistaken. We know who they have over there and we know who we have on our side."
(via @NotoriousOHM) pic.twitter.com/TICm6BE2KW
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 18, 2022
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With every passing season, the rivalry has only cemented its place in the league. Considering the turbulent performances over the past few years, every campaign brings out a new side to the ‘Battle of LA’ between the Clippers and Lakers.
John Wall competitive regarding LeBron James and the LA rivalry?
If you follow the NBA world–or a part of it–it might be hard to miss the LA rivalry. Some feel strongly about the same, while some remain distant. Some support the Lakers, while some side with the Clippers. Irrespective of the side one chooses, James, his Lakers, and the Clippers are hard to ignore and veteran John Wall seems to agree.
For the Clippers, signing John Wall has been a recent highlight. The NBA veteran will take a slight backseat as Paul George and Kawhi Leonard take the lead. The 31-year-old seems excited about his new journey, while also making some statements about the game. His recent comments about the rivalry between the two fans incited the Lakers fan, and they wasted no time in letting their thoughts known.
We count World Championship Titles out here…not City Titles…here we go with misguided focus. Don’t blow this Clippers; this Laker fan is holding you to the World Champion Standard, you better raise your standard from City Titles, your Banners @ Kinkos r rdy
— Christopher Brownlee (@LawndaleBball) July 19, 2022
Does a boot have a quarrel with an ant?
— 55 Days Till Raider 🏈 (@HaikuRaider) July 18, 2022
I can tell this season is gonna be borderline insanity https://t.co/KAJojDgsQh
— Terry Jeager (@HerculeanRell) July 18, 2022
This again? pic.twitter.com/wsrkkozC4R
— Tase ™ (@HoodieTase) July 18, 2022
What battle lil bro? pic.twitter.com/GjFuShE2KH
— _.Mari1k (@Mari1k18) July 18, 2022
Lol that’s funny ash I’m not gonna lie
— 🤑 (@HoldenCooper8) July 18, 2022
Some fans even felt the topic was overrated, and spoke about it being brought up again and again.
During a recent interview with Ohm Youngmisuk from ESPN, Wall continued to stand with his team. “I think the Clippers haven’t lost in… what? The last 8 times? If I’m not mistaken,” Wall said. “We know who they have over there and we know who we have on our side.”
Will it be a great battle?
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Overall, Wall thinks it would be a ‘great’ clash between the two teams. For him personally, this becomes a great opportunity. Wall loves the stage and is excited to perform with Leonard and George.
On the other end, James and his team are recovering and training after a 2021-22 elimination. The Lakers failed to make the playoffs, not building on their 2020 win. Russell Westbrook and Anthony Davis needed to step up their pace, hoping to match King James’ rhythm as the season goes on.
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Do you think the Clippers will emerge victorious this time? Let us know in the comments below.