Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) shoots against the Los Angeles Lakers during first half at Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA, USA on March 19, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]

"(The Lakers) played well against us, but I know our team and the way we are," Cavs coach Tyronn Lue said. "Sometimes you have to understand it is not a show, but a competition. When we get to LA and play teams like this, we consider it a show instead of a competition. When you get down early, it hurts your confidence, and now you've got to fight and try to win your game."D'Angelo Russell scored a career-high 40 points in a spectacular return to the starting lineup for the Lakers, who have lost five straight and 13 of 14. Russell hit seven 3-pointers and had six assists while committing just one turnover in 41 minutes.

"He's a special guy," James said. "He's a special player. Russell was extremely hot tonight, and those guys fed off him."Jordan Clarkson added 19 points for the Lakers, and rookie Brandon Ingram had 18. All five Lakers starters scored in double figures for the first time since Christmas.

AP