2020 has been a year that will surely live in infamy throughout history. The world has been affected in every way by the Coronavirus pandemic and social unrest has skyrocketed not only in the United States but all over the world. On a more microscopic level, LA has not only been dealing with the effects of the pandemic but also with the losses of icons such as Lakers Legend Kobe Bryant and Black Panther/Jackie Robinson, Chadwick Boseman.
Despite all the negativity and roadblocks that have arisen throughout the year, LA sports teams have been the shred of light that have kept the city moving forward. The Dodgers, Lakers, and Clippers have all had dominant seasons thus far and all three have championship aspirations which could help some joy to a broken city.
The NL Powerhouse
Two thirds into their abbreviated 60 game season, the Dodgers have been nothing short of dominate with an MLB best 29-10 record. Coming fresh off a sweep of the Arizona Diamondbacks, they have improved a team 2.67 ERA (best in MLB) led by a rotation compiled of rookie sensations Dustin May and Tony Gonsolin, as well as a rejuvenated Clayton Kershaw. Kenley Jansen has also led the bullpen this year which has been one of the strengths of the team this season. While the offense started off slow to begin the year, it’s finally started to mesh and kick into high gear. Mookie Betts and Corey Seager look like a pair of MVPs that have lead the team to an MLB leading +98 run differential. The Dodgers have been one of the league’s best regular-season teams for years but now it’s time for them to finally finish on top.
Do it for Kobe
The tragic loss of Lakers legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gigi Bryant left an impact on the city and on the team. It’s given an already great team that much more incentive to want to bring home an NBA title. LeBron James is still defying father time and the presence and talent of Anthony Davis gives the Lakers a two-headed monster. After clinching the top seed in the West, the Lakers breezed through the first round of the playoffs and will matchup against the Houston Rockets. Alex Caruso and Caldwell-Pope shutdown the Trail Blazers’ guards and with be tested yet again with that of the Rockets. Between the talent and perforce so far this year as well as the will to win for Kobe, the Lakers are on a mission to win it all.
A Chance to Breakthrough
While the Lakers sport a pair of stars the Clippers counter with a pair of their own. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George have led the Clippers this season to clinch the No. 2 seed in the West. While they have never made it past the Conference Semifinals this time around is different. Armed with a talented roster and deep bench they have a great chance to finally move on. Their matchup against the Denver Nuggets only boosts their chances as they should be able to steamroll through. Their overpowering win in Game 1 is already a positive sign for the team and the return of Patrick Beverley only adds to the team’s fire. Should they move on to the Western Conference Finals for the first time ever, who says an NBA title isn’t within their reach?
Final Thoughts
Three LA teams have positioned themselves to win it all this year for the city of LA. We can’t rule out the Rams or Chargers who will try and continue the dominant year that sports in the city have had. Whoever brings home a title this year will have the hearts and gratitude of the city of Los Angeles.
