Cavs vs. Lakers: preview, odds, injury report, TV

LOS ANGELES — On Tuesday night at crypto.com Arena, the Cavs (28-4) look to extend their winning streak against a familiar face — LeBron James. Tipoff against the Lakers (18-13) is set for 9 p.m. Eastern.

Winners of seven straight, all by double digits, the Cavs are in rarefied air. This marks just the third time in franchise history they’ve won seven or more games in a row by such a margin.

This is Cleveland’s chance to further solidify its identity, no longer tethered to the shadow of its most iconic player.

At 28-4, the Cavs’ blistering start to the season isn’t just rewriting team history — it’s erasing the notion that greatness in Cleveland must always be tied to James. Yet, as the Cavaliers chase new heights, James continues to command respect.

Fresh off celebrating his 40th birthday, James faces the team that helped shape his legendary career. While Father Time inches closer, James shows no signs of retreat, turning in masterful performances alongside Anthony Davis. For Lakers fans, he remains a beacon; for Cavs fans, a wistful reminder of banners raised and promises kept.

But this Cavs team isn’t dwelling on nostalgia.

Anchored by a suffocating defense and a balanced offense, they’ve stormed through the league like a juggernaut. Evan Mobley continues to evolve as one of the NBA’s premier defenders, Donovan Mitchell leads a potent scoring attack, and Darius Garland orchestrates the offense with precision.

For Cleveland, this game is about solidifying their dominance on the West Coast, extending their perfect 8-0 record against Western Conference teams, and reinforcing the validity of their standing in the NBA. For James, it’s about showing that his story isn’t finished.

While emotions will run high, with James’ basketball story nearing its final chapters, the Cavs remain locked in on the task at hand: beating whoever stands in their way. The lone banner James brought to Cleveland will hold immense weight over the fanbase and the organization — until they raise the next one,