Poll: Will the Lakers be better than you thought this season?
The Lakers did what few expected on Tuesday, defeating the Clippers, 116-103, in the season opener for both teams.
This was supposed to be the season where the Lakers rebuild while the Clippers make a run at their first NBA title. It looks like someone forgot to inform the two teams.
As Lakers reporter Mike Bresnahan noted in his story, the Lakers’ reserves, an inconsistent group last season, outscored the starters, 76-40, and pushed away the Clippers with a huge fourth-quarter rush Tuesday night.
Xavier Henry, 22, was also impressive on his third team in four NBA seasons, nailing down a career-high 22 points in a designated Lakers home game at Staples Center.
“A great, great performance by our team,” said Pau Gasol, who finished with 15 points and 13 rebounds in 24 minutes. “Not completely surprised. I’m just proud and happy about the win.”
The Lakers made 14 of 29 three-point attempts (48.3%), the Clippers only eight of 21 (38.1%).
“Our confidence and our belief in each other, we didn’t waver at all,” Jordan Farmar said. “We competed and it’s a good sign to start off with.”
So, Lakers fans, does this performance make you more optimistic about the team’s fortunes this season? Vote in our poll and let us know.
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