LOS ANGELES — The Lakers and Clippers, for better or for worse, will always be linked with each other. It’s a consequence of sharing the same city, the same building, and compete for much of the same fanbase.
It sometimes feels like the two franchises are on a seesaw; while one rides high, the other is experiencing the lowest of the lows. The Lakers used to be the darlings of the league under Jerry Buss, while Donald Sterling was universally reviled, making the Clippers a punchline. Now, the Lakers are mocked for their decision-making and instability while the Clippers receive plaudits for their front office.