The Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers have both become major NBA powerhouses this offseason. 

The Lakers traded away their young core of Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart, and three first round picks for superstar forward Anthony Davis. They also signed proven guards Danny Green, Quinn Cook, and Avery Bradley, and Center Dwight Howard. The Lakers also resigned Center Javale Mcgee, and Guards Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Alex Caruso, and Rajon Rondo. 

“I think the Lakers’ new roster is definitely a championship caliber roster,” said senior Frankie Sandoval. “With Anthony Davis paired up with LeBron, I don’t see many teams beating the Lakers this year.”

With a new and more experienced roster, the Lakers look to make a run for the NBA championship in June, and with LeBron James still on the roster, the Lakers are one of the favorites to win it all. However, the Clippers have also made dramatic changes to their roster as well.

The Clippers added Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard, and MVP candidate Paul George to an already impressive roster. Without Leonard and George, this Clippers team pushed the then defending champion Golden State Warriors to 6 games, including a ridiculous 30 point comeback in Game 2. With the Warriors losing Kevin Durant in free agency, and injuries to key players, the Clippers are poised to make a run at the title this year.

“The Clippers have managed to add new superstars while still keeping their main core players,” says senior Mateo Horguin. “I’m excited to see them play this year. With Kawhi and Paul George on the team, it should be a fun season.”

Many are torn over who will become the face of Los Angeles basketball this year: The Lakers or the Clippers. Personally, the Lakers still have LeBron James, and the addition of a player of Anthony Davis’s caliber will definitely have an impact on the team’s success. And, as was proven this past season, the best team on paper does not always win. Even though the Clippers may seem better because of the names on their roster, there are many factors that can affect a team’s success. I think the Lakers are still the best team in LA, and they will show their dominance this season.