James picks his spots

The latest meeting between the Lakers and Clippers functioned both as spectacle and as affirmation of the pecking order. The final score in favor of the purple and gold comes off as a whipping on surface, punctuated by scoring bursts from marquee names. At the same time, clarity lies beyond the numbers: Roles, rhythms and resolve have clearly coalesced for the winners and unravelled for the vanquished.

- ANTHONY L. CUAYCONG

From the jump, the Lakers moved with purpose. Luka Doncic erupted for 24 of his 43 points in a first half that disabused the Clippers of any notion of competitiveness. LeBron James — still getting back to shape after a prolonged absence to start the season — moved with an air of authority and assurance, his 25, six, and six underscoring his willingness to cede the limelight (yes, even to undrafted Austin Reaves) and pick his spots. And when the battlesmoke cleared, with victory came validation.