Blake Griffin battles against the guard of the Lakers’ Carlos Boozer/Staff photo by Michael Owen Baker

Blake Griffin finished third in the MVP voting a season ago. The more nights he has like Friday’s, the better chance he has of moving up a rung or two on that ladder.

Griffin scored 39 points on 13 of 23 shooting in the Clippers’ 118-111 victory over the Lakers at Staples Center. He made both of his 3-point attempts, 11 of 12 from the free-throw line. He also had seven rebounds and four assists. He had five turnovers as well, but he played nearly 40 minutes, so no big deal there.

And, perhaps as vital as anything, he was calling for the ball in a hotly contested game.

“I’ve become a little more comfortable and confident each year,” Griffin said.

Teammate Chris Paul said a mouthful.

“Tonight was the night where he started to understand who he is, and how good he is,” Paul said. “He demanded the ball, and I think that was great. Every time he posts and says ‘Bring it,’ it’s like music to our ears because he deserves it. He is our go-to guy.”