Los Angeles Lakers vs Cleveland Cavaliers Prediction | 01.28.26
Los Angeles Lakers
Cleveland Cavaliers
Game Spread
Total Points
Tale of the Tape
Detailed Analysis
Los Angeles Lakers vs Cleveland Cavaliers Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 28-01-2026
An anticipated cross-conference clash unfolds January 28, 2026, as the Los Angeles Lakers (28-17) visit Rocket Arena in Cleveland to face the Cleveland Cavaliers (28-20) at 7:00 PM EST. This regular-season matchup promises an engaging battle between two playoff contenders.
Los Angeles Lakers vs Cleveland Cavaliers Matchup Preview
Los Angeles Lakers Key Stats & Trends
The Lakers are led by superstar Luka Doncic, enjoying an MVP-caliber season with 33.8 points, 8.8 assists, and 7.8 rebounds. His all-around dominance, including 1.5 steals and 0.5 blocks, drives their offense. Deandre Ayton provides a strong interior presence, leading with 8.6 rebounds. While Austin Reaves (calf) is out, veteran leadership from LeBron James and depth from Marcus Smart will be vital for Los Angeles.
Injury Report Los Angeles Lakers
- Austin Reaves (Out): Reaves (calf) has been ruled out for Wednesday’s game against the Cavaliers.
- Adou Thiero (Out): Thiero will miss at least four weeks with a right MCL sprain, Law Murray of The Athletic reports.
Cleveland Cavaliers Key Stats & Trends
The Cavaliers, despite a strong record, face significant injury challenges. Their offensive engine, Donovan Mitchell, has been exceptional, posting 29.5 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.8 rebounds, plus 1.5 steals. Jarrett Allen anchors their defense and rebounding with 7.8 boards. However, Cleveland is severely shorthanded: Darius Garland (toe), Evan Mobley (calf), and Max Strus (foot) are all out, depleting crucial depth and defensive versatility.
Injury Report Cleveland Cavaliers
- De’Andre Hunter (Day-to-day): Hunter is probable for Wednesday’s game against the Lakers with right knee soreness.
- Darius Garland (Out): Garland (toe) has been ruled out for Wednesday’s game against the Lakers.
- Sam Merrill (Probable): Merrill is probable for Wednesday’s game against the Lakers with a sprained right hand.
- Evan Mobley (Out): Mobley (calf) is expected to miss at least one week, Chris Haynes of NBA TV reports.
- Luke Travers (Day-to-day): Travers (hamstring) posted four points (2-2 FG), three rebounds and one steal in six minutes during Friday’s 136-125 loss to the Bulls.
- Max Strus (Out): Strus (foot) is expected to miss at least four more weeks, Marc J. Spears of ESPN.com reports.
Los Angeles Lakers vs Cleveland Cavaliers Prediction & Best Bet
Despite injuries, the Cleveland Cavaliers, propelled by Donovan Mitchell’s brilliance and home-court advantage, are poised to cover. While Los Angeles relies on Luka Doncic’s dominance, the Cavaliers show resilience, with probable returns of De’Andre Hunter and Sam Merrill providing depth. Cleveland’s defense, even without Mobley, can be effective at home, and Mitchell can carry the scoring load. Given their strong home record and Mitchell’s clutch play, the Cavaliers are favored. Expect a high-scoring affair due to elite offensive talents and potential defensive gaps.
Prediction: Cleveland Cavaliers -3.5 (Spread)
Total Points: over 235.5
Last 5 Games: LAL
| Opponent | Result | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| @ Chicago | W 129-118 | Doncic 46 | Doncic 7 | Doncic 12 |
| @ Dallas | W 116-110 | Doncic 33 | Ayton 11 | Doncic 11 |
| @ LA | L 112-104 | Doncic 32 | Doncic 11 | Doncic 8 |
| @ Denver | W 115-107 | Doncic 38 | Doncic 13 | Doncic 10 |
| vs Toronto | W 110-93 | Ayton 25 | Ayton 13 | Doncic 7 |
Last 5 Games: CLE
| Opponent | Result | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs Orlando | W 114-98 | Mitchell 45 | Mobley 9 | Porter Jr. 5 |
| @ Orlando | W 119-105 | Mitchell 36 | Ball 8 | Mitchell 9 |
| vs Sacramento | W 123-118 | Mitchell 33 | Mobley 13 | Mitchell 8 |
| @ Charlotte | W 94-87 | Mitchell 24 | Mobley 14 | Mitchell 6 |
| vs Oklahoma City | L 136-104 | Mitchell 19 | Tyson 10 | Mobley 5 |
Written by Matt Dorsey
Matt Dorsey turned his obsession with sports into a career five years ago, and he hasn't looked back. By combining a fan's passion with a veteran’s analytical eye, Matt provides reliable insights for the NBA, NHL, and NFL. He knows you’re looking for more than just a pick; you’re looking for a reason to trust the play. That’s why his work is always transparent, researched, and rooted in five years of proven results.
