The re-energized Lakers play host to LeBron’s old team, who are currently 2-0 in their road trip.

HOME TEAM: Los Angeles Lakers (32-7, 15-4 at home)

The Los Angeles Lakers have now stitched together eight consecutive wins. They are averaging 119.1 PPG and winning by more than 14 points in that stretch.

The most recent victory was Sunday’s 125-110 road win over the Oklahoma City Thunder, where they cruised despite LeBron James (illness) and Anthony Davis (back, hip) both sitting out.

Davis may continue to be sidelined but James is expected to return. The King could look to put on a show against his former team as he always does. He’s still in some momentum considering he has back-to-back 30-point performances prior to getting rested this past Sunday – 33 PPG, 10.5 RPG, and 6.0 APG, 52.3 FG% over his last two outings.

Kyle Kuzma will be the second option should Davis still be absent. The third-year forward has started in his last two appearances and just scored a season-high 36 against OKC.

ROAD TEAM: Cleveland Cavaliers (12-27, 6-13 on the road)

The Cleveland Cavaliers are in a surprisingly good rhythm. They are in the middle of a six-game road trip and 2-0 so far. After edging out the Detroit Pistons in overtime last Friday, 115-112, they shocked the Denver Nuggets on Sunday, 111-103, and had six players in double figures.

There are also a handful of Cavaliers to watch out for as they are riding a hot streak. Collin Sexton is averaging 22 points in his last 10 games, Tristan Thompson’s just had a 35 and 14 double-double two days ago, Kevin Love is posting 22 points and 11 boards on 53.2% shooting in his last three, and rookie Darius Garland is at 17.2 PPG and 5.4 APG in his last five.

The offense is clicking and we should see those four take the lead. However, it’s on defense that they have to be extra focused on. The Cavs defense is only 21st in points allowed and 29th in defensive efficiency, and it can get easily punctured by the Lake Show’s good ball movement.

PREDICTION:

The Lakers should be able to get this and squash the Cavs’ mini run. They win, 115-106.

Cleveland is only 28th in assists allowed, so look for James to be loose and have an easy day showcasing his facilitating abilities and for Kuzma to have another good scoring night.