It is a spectacle to behold whenever the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers meet, particularly since the Clippers have ceased to be the league’s laughingstock. However, LeBron James and the Lakers have not fared well in these contests over the last three seasons. In fact, their last victory over the Clippers prior to Wednesday night’s matchup occurred on July 30, 2020, which is approximately three years and three months ago at this time.

Ever since that momentous occasion, the Clippers have dominated the Lakers, claiming eleven consecutive victories at home against the Purple and Gold. And as of Wednesday evening, it appeared that this trajectory would persist. The Clippers established an early double-digit lead over the Lakers on the strength of Kawhi Leonard’s explosive first half, rendering the contest reminiscent of games from the past.Nevertheless, this foolishness was put an end to by LeBron James for the Lakers. James led the way with 35 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists in an overtime 130-125 victory over the Clippers, halting the team’s 11-game losing streak against the Clippers and granting them their first victory in over three years against their in-city rivals. Furthermore, as reported by Clippers reporter Farbod Esnaashari of SI’s Fan Nation, this triumph signifies James’ inaugural triumph against Tyronn Lue, his former head coach during his tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers.In their rivalry with the Clippers, the Lakers required a herculean effort from not only James but also the remainder of the squad in order to staunch the hemorrhaging. Furthermore, they were led by D’Angelo Russell, who maintained the lead for the Lakers with 27 points, and Cam Reddish, who replaced the injured Taurean Prince and played an incredibly active defensive game, delivered performances that left an indelible mark.Notwithstanding the eight-point advantage they established in the closing minutes of the game, they conceded in the face of a storming comeback by Paul George and the Clippers, which was sufficient to force overtime. As a result of George and Norman Powell fouling out, the Clippers ultimately lacked the firepower required to keep up, particularly on the second night of a back-to-back. However, the only thing that matters to Lakers supporters is victory, and that is precisely what they achieved tonight.