The first game against the Clippers was the closest the Lakers would ever get. Since then, the Clippers have been vengeful all season.
The Lakers kept things relatively competitive during the first half. The Los Angeles rivals see-sawed back and forth. But, in the 3rd quarter, the message was sent. After halftime, the next 12 minutes were followed with a 37 to 23 run. The Clippers outplayed the Lakers on every facet of the game. For the game, the Lakers shot 41.9% compared to the Clippers at 56.6% from the field. The Lakers shot 22.6% compared to the Clippers at 52.6% behind the arc. The Lakers were outrebounded 38 to 52. The only player that has a plus rating for the Laker roster is MarShon Brooks at +1, on just two minutes of playing time.
Jordan Hill did a solid job competing against Blake Griffin. He finished with 22 points and 9 rebounds on 10 of 14 from the field. Griffin, finished with 23 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists.
Nick Young played through a left knee injury. While it’s unclear to Nick Young, he’s fighting through it.
Nick Young says he will keep playing despite knee and ankle injuries. "I'm going to go down with the ship."
— Mike Bresnahan (@Mike_Bresnahan) April 6, 2014
While it was clear that he was struggling through injury, going 5 of 15 from the field, he shot 2 of 11 behind the arc as well, and finished with 18 points.
Kent Bazemore left the game early with a foot injury. The MRI for the injury is on Monday.
The season is almost at an end. The Lakers are just trying to survive.
The statement in Los Angeles is clear. The Clippers rule, for now.