Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant thinks Kawhi Leonard signed with the Clippers instead of the Lakers because he wanted the challenge of turning the Clippers around.

The Clippers have never even played in an NBA Finals before, while the Lakers have won 16 titles. Leonard was able to convince Paul George to request a trade from the Oklahoma City Thunder to the Clips.

Now, for the first time in franchise history, LAC is legitimate title contenders with Leonard and George leading the charge.

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“Well, I think he wanted the challenge of trying to turn the Clippers around,” Bryant told ESPN. “And I think he saw a great opportunity if Paul George wanted to participate and that challenge with him. Both kids are from LA.”

No one really expected Kawhi Leonard to sign with the Lakers since the move didn't really fit his M.O. After guiding the Toronto Raptors to the 2019 championship and winning his second Finals MVP, playing third fiddle behind LeBron James and Anthony Davis just wasn't in the cards for Kawhi.

The battle of Los Angeles is going to be epic next season. LeBron and AD versus Leonard and George. It really doesn't get any better than that. Kobe Bryant will obviously be rooting for his Lakers, but the future Hall of Famer has to be excited with what LAC is building.