The Los Angeles Lakers made their first visit to the Intuit Dome, the home arena of their local rivals, tonight. The Lakers had a terrible night, losing to the Los Angeles Clippers 102-116. Notably, Lakers star LeBron James was left helpless in offense and defense during the game. His teammate Anthony Davis did not perform as per his standards, performing poorly on defense throughout the game.
LeBron James played 35 minutes and finished the game with 25 points, 5 rebounds, 11 assists, 3 steals, 1 block, and a shooting percentage of 9/20 from the field and 2/6 from three-point range. He met with the media following the game and gave a very candid speech. James made his opinions clear regarding how the Lakers are supposed to play going forward this season.
We don’t have a choice, that’s the way our team is constructed. We have to. We have to play close to perfect basketball.
LeBron James told reporters
LeBron: “We don’t have a choice, that’s the way our team is constructed. We have to. We have to play close to perfect basketball” pic.twitter.com/8NywcXWFIz
— Oh No He Didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) January 20, 2025
Apart from James, Rui Hachimura pulled down seven rebounds and scored 19 points (9–14 FG). Austin Reaves had a modest 14 points (4-6 FG), while Davis was disappointing with only 16 points (5-14 FG), 10 rebounds, and three blocks. Max Christie (4-7 FG) and Dalton Knecht (3-4 FG) both scored 10 points in the defeat.
As for the Clippers, with 22 points (9–17 FG), Norman Powell led them in scoring, and Ivica Zubac had a game that was almost 20–20 with 21 points (9–16 FG), 19 rebounds, and three blocks. In addition, Kawhi Leonard finished with 19 points (9-13 FG) and 11 assists. Also, James Harden finished with 21 points (7-19 FG) and 11 assists.
Kawhi Leonard ‘ignores’ battle with LeBron James’ Lakers at Intuit Dome
The Los Angeles Lakers vs the Los Angeles Clippers matchup had everyone excited, especially regarding the “Battle for LA” rivalry. Clippers star man, Kawhi Leonard, though, was unconcerned about the importance of the game. Rather, he went about his usual business during the game against LeBron James and company.
Same as any other game for me. Whoever it is on the other side of the court.
Kawhi Leonard told reporters.
Kawhi Leonard on playing the Lakers at Intuit Dome: “Same as any other game for me. Whoever it is on the other side of the court.”
— Farbod Esnaashari (@Farbod_E) January 20, 2025
This comment is in keeping with Leonard’s propensity for underwhelmed reactions. He appears to have kept his focus by downplaying the importance of the match, which allowed him to concentrate on the game without being sidetracked by the occasion. Given that, Leonard was crucial for the Clippers at the Intuit Dome, dropping 19 points and orchestrating the game for his teammates.
Stay Updated!
Join our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and curated insights directly to your inbox.
