Lakers vs Clippers: The Clippers Get First Division Title in Franchise History, 109-95

The Clippers have beaten the Lakers by an average of 13 points during their last 3 match-ups and had an opportunity to sweep the season series against their neighbors in today’s game. Although the Lakers got off to a good start, Chris Paul and the Clippers made history, as they swept the season series,109-95, giving them their first Pacific Division title in franchise history. The Clippers had a great all around game and maintained the lead throughout. They shot 50% from the field and out-rebound the Lakers, with 50 boards to their 36. Chris Paul and Blake Griffin led the team with 24 points a piece. Chris Paul also had 12 assist and Blake Griffin added 12 rebounds giving them both, double-doubles. DeAndre Jordan didn't shoot well, but did help on the defensive end with 13 rebounds. Jamal Crawford came off the bench with 20 points, and Caron Butler finished with 14 points. We got some big plays by the Clippers late in the fourth, including a dunk by Blake Griffin and a huge 3-pointer with under 2 minutes left in the game.The Lakers came within single digits in the fourth but never regained the lead. Dwight Howard scored 25 points and shot well from the line, hitting 9 out of 13 free-throws. Kobe Bryant also had 25 points and added 10 assist and 7 rebounds. Paul Gasol had a decent game, with 12 points and 13 boards.The Lakers played without Steve Nash, who is still out due to an injury he sustained on March 25th.

With this win, the Clippers clinch the 4^th spot in the playoffs but will still have to battle for home court advantage and must finish the season with a better record the Memphis Grizzlies. They have 5 games left including a game on Saturday against Memphis. Big accomplishment for the Clippers, but I'm sure they have their eyes on the bigger prize.

The Los Angeles Lakers fight for a spot for the playoffs isn't over. They were tied with Utah, but the Jazz got the win tonight against the Golden State Warriors. This victory moves Utah a half-game ahead of Kobe Bryant and the Lakers.With 5 games left, the Lakers can’t really afford another loss. Luckily, 4 of their 5 games are at home. On Tuesday they play against the Hornets and continue on their race for the playoffs. 

-@SarahTresChic15