LA Lakers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers Prediction and Preview for 2024 Summer League | July 18
After squeaking past the Atlanta Hawks 87-86, the LA Lakers have less than 24 hours before they take on the Cleveland Cavaliers. Even without Dalton Knecht, they pulled off a come-from-behind win. Bronny James, who had his best game in the Summer League, drilled a crucial 3-pointer to help the Lakers get their first victory in the competition.
Like the Lakers, the Cavaliers also have a quick turnaround after a 96-85 loss to the Golden State Warriors. Emoni Bates had another solid outing, but first-round pick Jaylon Tyson struggled. The No. 20 pick in this year's draft has to step up to help his team against LA.
LA Lakers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers: Game details and odds
The Thomas & Mack Center will host the showdown between the LA Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers. Bally Sports Ohio will air the game locally while ESPN will cover it on national TV. Basketball fans can stream the action by subscribing to the NBA League Pass.
Moneyline: Lakers (+176) vs. Cavaliers (-220)
Spread: Lakers (+5) vs. Cavaliers (-5)
Total (O/U): Lakers (o178.5 -110) vs. Cavaliers (u178.5 -110)
Editor’s Note: The odds could change closer to the game. The odds listed were as per available information at the time of writing.
LA Lakers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers: NBA 2K25 Summer League Rosters
LA Lakers Summer League roster
Bronny James has to feel good after his showing against the Atlanta Hawks. After struggling badly against the Boston Celtics two nights ago, he finished with 12 points in the win versus Atlanta. James Jr. made 5-of-11 shots, including 2-for-5 in 3-pointers. One of his triples allowed the Lakers to tie the game before eventually holding on for the win.
James Jr., though, might be held out as the Lakers are playing the second night of a back-to-back set. He was forced to sit out two weeks ago in the California Classic due to knee swelling.
Dalton Knecht, however, could return to action after getting a rest for the Hawks game.
Here is the Lakers’ Summer League lineup
Cleveland Cavaliers Summer League roster
The Cavaliers put on an underwhelming show after mowing down the Milwaukee Bucks 112-81 on Monday. Jaylon Tyson came crashing back to earth after an impressive display in the win over Milwaukee. Against Golden State, he finished with four points, four rebounds and four assists.
Cleveland will need more from their first-round pick in the showdown against LA.
Here’s the Cavaliers’ Summer League Lineup
LA Lakers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers: Prediction
The LA Lakers finally played well on both ends of the floor for an entire quarter. They did it in the final frame against the Hawks, enabling them to rally for the win. It remains to be seen if they can sustain it after less than 24 hours of rest.
The Cleveland Cavaliers have shown more rhythm and better execution than their opponents despite the loss to Golden State. Those are advantages that they can carry over in their next game despite the short rest.
Cleveland could come out on top following a seesaw battle.