Cleveland Cavaliers vs Los Angeles Lakers: NBA Showdown Preview
The National Basketball Association is gearing up for another thrilling encounter as the Cleveland Cavaliers prepare to face off against the Los Angeles Lakers. This highly anticipated match is scheduled to tip off at 7:00 pm Eastern Time on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. Both teams are looking to secure a vital victory as they navigate through the competitive NBA season.
Team Performance and Key Absences
The Cleveland Cavaliers have demonstrated a solid performance this season, having secured 28 wins out of their 48 games. However, they will be entering this clash without some of their key players. Darius Garland and Evan Mobley have been sidelined for tonight's game against the Lakers, which could impact the team's dynamics. In their absence, the Cavaliers are heavily relying on standout performers like Donovan Mitchell and Dean Wade to lead the charge.
On the other side, the Los Angeles Lakers have also recorded 28 wins, but from 45 games played. Their roster features high-caliber players such as Luka Doncic and the legendary LeBron James, which significantly boosts their chances of clinching a win. However, the Lakers will be without Austin Reaves, who is out due to injuries, adding a layer of challenge to their game plan.
When and Where to Watch the Game
The Cleveland Cavaliers will host the Los Angeles Lakers at the Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. The match is set to begin at 7:00 p.m. ET on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. Fans can catch the action live on ESPN and SportsNet LA. For those preferring online streaming, the game will be available on Fubo and Prime Video, ensuring that viewers worldwide can enjoy this exciting NBA showdown.
Expected Starting Lineups
Cleveland Cavaliers:
- Craig Porter Jr. (Point Guard)
- Donovan Mitchell (Shooting Guard)
- Dean Wade (Small Forward)
- Larry Nance Jr. (Power Forward)
- Jarrett Allen (Center)
Los Angeles Lakers:
- Luka Doncic (Point Guard)
- Marcus Smart (Shooting Guard)
- Rui Hachimura (Small Forward)
- LeBron James (Power Forward)
- Deandre Ayton (Center)
Injury Report
Cleveland Cavaliers:
- Darius Garland - OUT (toe injury)
- Sam Merrill - OUT (hand injury)
- Evan Mobley - OUT (calf injury)
- Max Strus - OUT (foot injury)
- Luke Travers - OUT (hamstring injury)
- De’Andre Hunter - QUESTIONABLE (knee injury)
Los Angeles Lakers:
- Austin Reaves - OUT (calf injury)
- Adou Thiero - OUT (MCL sprain)
Game Prediction and Player Stats
This season, the Cleveland Cavaliers have scored 236.5 points in 22 out of their 48 games, showcasing their offensive capabilities. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers have achieved the same point total in 17 out of 45 games, making this matchup particularly intriguing and difficult to predict.
The Cavaliers boast an impressive roster, with Donovan Mitchell leading the way. Mitchell has been delivering outstanding performances, averaging 29.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game this season. Additionally, Jarrett Allen has contributed significantly, with averages of 13.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game.
For the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James continues to be a pivotal player, averaging 22.4 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game, helping the team advance closer to the finals. Luka Doncic has also been in exceptional form, posting averages of 33.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, making him a key threat on the court.
With both teams fielding strong lineups despite injury setbacks, this game promises to be a closely contested battle. The outcome may hinge on how well the available players step up and execute their strategies under pressure.
