Lakers–Warriors rivalry

The Lakers–Warriors rivalry is a National Basketball Association (NBA) rivalry between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors. Unlike most sports rivalries between Northern and Southern California, there is more mutual respect present between both teams as opposed to fierce animosity; such as the Dodgers–Giants rivalry in the MLB or 49ers–Rams rivalry of the NFL. Geography plays a large role as both franchises are largely popular within the state, however; the Lakers have historically been extremely dominant in the series as they have won six of the seven playoff matchups against the Warriors, and have among the most championships in league history. However, the Warriors had overcome years of playoff futility with the arrival of such players as Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green during the 2010s, winning them four championships from 2015 to 2022. The Lakers had overcome their own struggles following the retirement of Hall of Fame guard Kobe Bryant, but rebuilt around strong free agent signings with the likes of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, leading them to win the 2020 NBA Finals. Both teams have met eight times in the postseason, combining for 38 division titles since both teams relocated to California in the early 1960s. Notably, prior to his signing with the Lakers; LeBron James had faced off against Stephen Curry and the Warriors in four straight NBA Finals appearances from when he was a member of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Both teams combine for 24 championships between them. The Lakers lead the all time regular season series 265–177, and the postseason series 28–13.