The Clippers dominated the Lakers early on last season, but the rivals never got the chance to square off in the bubble. Emotions will be high as another Lakers championship banner is hung in the same arena the Clippers call home. The Lakers' loss of Rajon Rondo is not being talked about enough. I love the Clippers straight up.

These rivals met four times last season and the Under hit in all four contests. More importantly, the average game between them featured 212.5 points, which is well below where the total has been set for tonight. Toss in a new-look Clippers squad, and that fact it's the first time both teams will be playing in an empty Staples Center (it'll be a much different atmosphere than the bubble) and I don't expect it to be a high-scoring affair.

The Lakers start off their title defense with a tough matchup against the Clippers. With that being said, they are a significantly deeper team this season after adding Dennis Schroder, Montrezl Harrell and Marc Gasol. Meanwhile, the Clippers will be missing a key rotation player in Marcus Morris (knee). This should be a close game, but I’ll take the Lakers to earn the victory thanks to their added depth.