Live Thread: Cavs @ Lakers (#TheBusiness)

The Cavs are in Los Angeles for a second consecutive night, as they go about their business of getting through the stretch run of the regular season in taking on the Lakers. Apparently, the League called the team out yesterday to give them the business for damaging their business by resting stars LeBron James, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love against the Clippers. Reportedly though, the Cavs feel like it’s none of anyone’s business what they decide to do with their own players to ensure they’re rested and healthy for the impending post-season.

It should be back to business as usual tonight, however, as the big three are all expected to be back in the lineup, and the Cavs can officially clinch a playoff spot with a victory. The only remaining missing pieces for the wine & gold are Kyle Korver (still recovering from a sore foot) and Larry Sanders (getting in basketball shape in Canton). Sanders did play for the Charge last night, scoring a basket with one rebound, three blocks and five fouls in just 11 minutes of play. By all reports though, it sounds like even though he was rusty, he still had some presence when he checked into the game.

The Lakers have been resting former starters for a much different reason. They are clearly tanking to try and prevent their number one pick from going to Philadelphia this year, and have designated Timofey Mozgov and Luol Deng as healthy scratches for the rest of the season, while also moving D’Angelo Russell to the bench. They’ll also be without Nick Young (flu), so the Cavs will see a steady dose of youngsters in Luke Walton’s lineup.

Cavs probable starting lineup: LeBron James, Kevin Love, Tristan Thompson, Iman Shumpert, Kyrie Irving.

Lakers probable starting lineup: Jordan Clarkson, Brandon Ingram, Julius Randle, Nick Young, Ivica Zubac.

Prediction: The Cavs probably give the Lakers the business on their way to a 127-108 win.

Catch all the action (if you’re in the business of staying up late) at 9:30 EST on NBATV. If you don’t, then that’s none of my business…