The Clippers clinched the season series over the Lakers on Thursday night.
For the first time in 20 years, the Los Angeles Clippers clinched a season series win over the Lakers, after a 125-101 win at the Staples Center.
Visibly quicker, stronger and more effective, questions are beginning to be asked as to whether the Clippers are eclipsing their more illustrious rivals.
Previous to this season, the Clippers have only achieved such a feat on two occasions in their 42-year history, back in the 1974/75 season and again in 1992/93.
Equally damning are their respective records ahead of the All-Star break, with the Clippers at 39-17 and third in the Western Conference compared to 25-29 for the Lakers who sit outside the play-off spots and are in danger of missing out completely on the post-season.
Led by guard Chris Paul and dunking machine Blake Griffin, the Clippers were also efficient from beyond the arc on Thursday night, shooting 16-of-30 from three point range.
Despite the best efforts of Kobe Bryant and Dwight Howard, the Lakers were never really in the game but for a short period in the second quarter. However, the return of Paul and Chauncey Billups to the court ensured a blow-out win.
These two meet again in April, with the Clippers hoping to continue to re-write history and secure a whitewash. For the Lakers, they will hope the All-Star break gives them the breathing space to regroup and come out stronger for the remainder of the season with the two teams heading in very different directions.
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