Live Game Thread: Brooklyn Nets vs. Los Angeles Lakers, 8:30 PM EST

Could this be a possible NBA Finals preview? As good as these teams are, Saturday night’s matchup will exclude LeBron James, Anthony Davis and James Harden. Those are the dudes NOT playing in tonight’s game.

Kevin Durant will be playing - heeeee’s baaaack. And he looks fantastic. Same goes for Kyrie Irving.

Tonight’s game may not be the “marquee” matchup we would all hope for - but it should be great, nonetheless.

We’ll be LIVE on Clubhouse tonight after the game: should be an interesting conversation.

WHO: Brooklyn Nets (36-16) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (32-20)

WHEN: 8:30 PM EST

WHERE: ABC (national), WFAN (radio)

Game Preview.

Player to watch: Dennis Schroder

Tricky thing about being the main shot creator while LeBron is out is you’ve got all the responsibility with none of the help. Dennis Schroder handed out 14 assists against the Heat on Thursday, but had seven turnovers and only went 2-12 from the field in 40 minutes. Like THT, he was floated in the Lowry discussions and just like THT, he’ll be a free agent this offseason. In the meantime, he’ll look to drive to the basket and create clean looks for his teammates. LA is in the bottom third of the league in threes attempted per game, so they’re gonna need to go against type to grab the win.

It’s a good while before it’s award season, but Kyrie Irving figures to get some love. Irving was masterful once again on Wednesday night and only had to play 30:06 to get his 24 points and six assists. He’s someone that can bend even the best defenses so Schroder, Alex Caruso, and the rest of the Lakers guards will have to work extra hard to slow him down. It’s the game of the week and Irving will have one more opportunity to dazzle the fans and keep Brooklyn on top of the East ahead of a crucial stretch of games.

For more on the Lakers, check out Silver Screen and Roll.