Los Angeles Clippers vs. Golden State Warriors: Live Score, Video and Analysis

The level of excitement surrounding the Los Angeles Clippers at the start of the 2011-12 season is at its highest in the history of the franchise.

The acquisition of Chris Paul has convinced ESPN analyst Chris Broussard that the Clippers will be the Western Conference champions.

Furthermore, the Clippers have added Chauncey Billups and Caron Butler to a team that lacked offensive punch last season.

Tonight, the Clippers will have their first chance to show that they are a legitimate playoff contender.

The Clippers will be visiting the Golden State Warriors, who are breaking in a new coach in Mark Jackson.

Stephen Curry has a sprained right ankle for the Warriors, but he is expected to tough it out for the season opener.

Monta Ellis has a problem of his own, but his is of the personal variety. Ellis faces a sexual harassment lawsuit from a former Warriors employee, and it will be interesting to see if that will affect him on the court.

In addition to featuring an exciting backcourt of Curry and Ellis, the Warriors have the 2011 league leader in made three-pointers in Dorell Wright. 

The Warriors may not have high expectations this season, but there's no doubt that they will be a very exciting team to watch.

The high-flying big man tandem of Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan will be very fun to watch tonight, as the poor Warriors defense should allow them to get open often on the fast break.

Although tonight's matchup follows all of the premiere games on Christmas, expect it to be the most exciting game of opening day. 

Please leave comments and questions below. I would love to interact with all of my readers during the game tonight.

Michael Walkusky is a featured columnist on Bleacher Report. Follow him on Twitter