Both teams have started the season slow. But I liked what I saw from the Lakers during the second half of their 117-92 win against the Kings this past Tuesday night. LA won that game without LeBron James, who is expected to play here. The Lakers are showing signs of getting better going 3-1 in their last four games. Their bench looked good against the Kings.

I'm not seeing this type of improvement from the Clippers. They are 2-6 in their last eight games, including losing their last three. The Clippers have dropped down in class without injured Kawhi Leonard. The Lakers have a huge superstar edge now on the Clippers with James, Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook.