L.A. Clippers vs. L.A. Lakers: Live Score, Results and Game Highlights

In a game the Los Angeles Lakers seemingly had to have in order to silence their critics, they couldn't get past the Los Angeles Clippers, losing 105-95 at the Staples Center.

After Dwight Howard picked up two early first quarter fouls, the Lakers just couldn't find consistency on the offensive end. Kobe Bryant was a stabilizing force with 40 points, but Howard and Pau Gasol could only muster a combined 23 points.

Without Steve Nash the Lakers had to lean on Steve Blake to run the point, and he did so effectively to the tune of eight points (2-of-3 from three-point range) and some solid defense on Chris Paul.

Paul was the best player on the floor Friday night, recording a double-double with 18 points and 15 assists.

Now 0-3 for the first time in 34 years, the Lakers face some serious questions. Can the Princeton offense be effective? Is Dwight Howard fully recovered from his back injury? Are the Lakers just too old to compete with teams like the Thunder and Clippers?

These are all valid concerns, and it will be up to Mike Brown and his coaching staff to right the ship in the coming weeks.