Chris Paul Trade: Could the LA Lakers-Clippers Become the NBA's Best Rivalry?

The MLB has the Red Sox and Yankees. NFL has Dallas and New York. As for the NBA, who is their greatest rivalry?

The Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers are the best rivalry in NBA history, but it is one that is off and on as far as competition goes. With two meetings in the NBA Finals in the past 10 years, it's likely not going to happen for a long time if not this year.

With Chris Paul landing in Los Angeles, this is the exact fire the NBA needs for a new rivalry and territorial battle.

While it was originally the Lakers landing Paul via trade, the NBA was swift to reject such an action that would possibly "jeopardize" the league.

However, the aftermath resulted in Paul becoming a member of the Clippers, alongside rising star Blake Griffin.

With the Lakers now left with only Dwight Howard to even the score, it's fair to say they were royally screwed. Lamar Odom was still shipped after the botched trade to Dallas due to feeling betrayed, but there is a chance that it will not end there.

With more rumors sure to swirl around players like Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum, could the chemistry for the Lakers be destroyed?

Better yet, could the days of championship glory be over for the former dynasty?

Expect a lot of heat to come out between these two franchises based on the Paul trade, but look for the NBA to reap the benefits.

Televised games, maximum coverage and a lot of conspiracy theories. Well, you know the drill by now.

While you would think a city with two teams would already have a rivalry, don't be surprised to see these two become more followed than ever.

While Kobe Bryant is currently a top-five player in the NBA as well as one of the most feared players in history, there is now a dynamic duo who will challenge him for the title of "best in town."

Griffin and Paul should be excellent together. In fact, they have the chance to be one of the best duos for the next few years.

With Paul's ability to make big men better with his court vision, expect a progressing Griffin to only become a more virtual all-around threat.

From a personal standpoint, I don't see the Clippers overtaking the throne this year, but without a blockbuster move from the Lakers, it's destined to happen VERY soon.

So who is the best team in Los Angeles? Feel free to leave a comment for debate, or just wait until the season is over and find out.