The Los Angeles Lakers are set to host the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night. Los Angeles is 18-13 overall in the 2024-25 season and they have won five of their past six games overall. The Cavaliers, however, hold a league leading 28-4 record. A specific LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Austin Reaves statistic suggests that the Lakers could be prepared for an upset, though.
The three Lakers have combined for a 35-15 record against the Cavs in their careers, per StatMuse. LeBron is 19-4 against his former team, while Davis is 12-8. Reaves is 4-3 when playing against the Cavaliers.
All-time records do not mean as much in this scenario since the Cavaliers are enjoying one of their best starts to a season in franchise history. Still, the statistic is worth mentioning. It suggests that the Lakers stars could play well en route to a potential victory.
LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Austin Reaves
Reaves is playing well in recent action. There was a time when some people around the NBA world felt as if Reaves could be packaged in a trade for a star. However, Reaves is establishing himself as a third star alongside LeBron and Davis.
Davis is displaying his MVP-caliber ceiling in the 2024-25 campaign. Although he may not win the award, Davis has enjoyed some incredible games this year. The Lakers need AD to lead the way in order to make a serious postseason run.
LeBron, despite dealing with injury trouble, has continued to make a big impact. James turned 40 years old on Monday, but he is still prepared to help the Lakers in their pursuit of an upset on Tuesday.
Cavaliers vs. Lakers
It is worth mentioning that LeBron (illness) is questionable and Davis (left ankle sprain) is probable for Tuesday's game, per the NBA injury report. If both players are available, something that is not guaranteed as of this story's writing, then the Lakers should have a respectable chance to upset the Cavs.
The Lakers will need other players to step up around LeBron and Davis if they are available. Defeating the Cavaliers will unquestionably require a complete team effort. A defeat would not be the worst thing by any means, but a victory would feel like a big statement as the Lakers try to establish themselves as a legitimate contender.
Tip-off for Tuesday night's Cavaliers-Lakers game is scheduled for 9 PM EST in Los Angeles.