The Los Angeles Clippers are leading the battle of Los Angeles in nearly every facet as they lead the Los Angeles Lakers, 52-47, at halftime at Staples Center.

The Lakers brought the Clippers' double-digit lead to within two on Devin Ebanks' three-pointer from the corner before Caron Butler answered with a three of his own at the buzzer to stretch the Clippers' lead to five at the end of the half. Butler and Kobe Bryant each scored a game-high 14 points through the first two quarters.

Turnovers were the story for the Lakers. Nine giveaways resulted in a total of eight points for the Clippers. The Clippers also displayed greater athleticism as they edged the Lakers in fast break points, 12-3.

The Lakers went 6 of 9 from downtown to climb back within the contest after trailing by as many as 11 points in the game.