Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Lakers: Explaining why the rivalry isn't one-sided

(Photo: Rob Schumacher / Arizona Republic)The history of the Phoenix Suns' rivalry with the Los Angeles Lakers has been primarily one-sided.

All rivalries need subplots, recurring themes, and figures to make it attractive and dramatic. Now that LeBron James is on the Lakers, he'll be playing against the Suns four times this season. And with three years on his contract, Suns fans will see both Pacific Division teams fighting each other to get back into the playoff hunt.

The Suns and Lakers have often stood in the way of each other's championship aspirations.

As such, here's five reasons that prove why these teams have a rivalry that dates back two decades.

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The…