Pacific Notes: Lue, Clippers, Kessler, Lakers, Ighodaro

The Los Angeles Clippers opened their 2026/27 season with a 121-96 victory over Sacramento despite missing Kawhi Leonard, Brandon Ingram, Max Strus, and Jordan Miller. Following the win, head coach Tyronn Lue dedicated the victory to team owner Steve Ballmer, who is currently serving a season-long suspension for salary cap circumvention rules. Clippers players Darius Garland and Brook Lopez also expressed how much they missed Ballmer's presence on the sidelines.

Los Angeles Times columnist Mirjam Swanson argued that the Clippers should prioritize fighting for fans over Ballmer following the scandal that cost five draft picks. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers opened their season strongly, highlighted by center Walker Kessler capitalizing against an undersized Golden State Warriors lineup.