NBA schedule and results: Cavaliers go for third straight

The Cleveland Cavaliers had arguably their most impressive win of the season Wednesday, when they routed the Washington Wizards at home. LeBron James finally played aggressively and his energy rubbed off on his teammates, resulting in five other Cavaliers scoring in double digits. It was the second blowout victory in a row, following a win against the Magic that snapped a four-game losing streak.

The Pacers got David West back in their Friday win against the Magic and have exceeded expectations so far despite being ravaged by injuries. Indiana has built an identity behind a top-10 defense and a cast of role players who can shoulder the scoring burden on any given night. If the season ended today, the Pacers would be making the playoffs, which was something no one believed could happen after the Paul George injury.

Both teams need the win. The Cavaliers want to start developing some consistency and start climbing in the standings while the Pacers try to keep their pursuers at bay. With Roy Hibbert still out with an ankle injury, the Cavs should be favored to win at home. But Indiana has already beaten good teams like the Bulls and Mavericks on the road, so anything can happen.

It's the ultimate matchup of stars vs. role players, as the Big Three of LeBron James, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love look to beat a team that relies on guys like Chris Copeland and Donald Sloan to put points on the board. It will be interesting to see if the Cavaliers' offense continues to click against a good defensive squad that doesn't make many mistakes. The seventh seed in the East is at stake.

Pelicans at Wizards, 7 p.m. ET

The Wizards are trying to bounce back after consecutive losses to the Hawks and Cavaliers. Anthony Davis and the Pelicans are also on a two-game losing streak. Nene might not suit up for Washington while Eric Gordon is out for New Orleans. The injuries take away from the entertainment factor in this one but Anthony Davis and John Wall alone make it worthy of your attention.

Clippers at Jazz, 9 p.m. ET

The Clippers are closing a seven-game road trip in which they have won five of six when they visit the Jazz. Some teams relax on the last game of a long trip and that could be dangerous for L.A. as Utah can match any team's athleticism and has plenty of weapons. The key match up will be Chris Paul vs. the Jazz's guards. Paul has been on a tear during the past six games, averaging almost 20 points a game. It's hard to see Trey Burke containing him, but stranger things have happened.

Hawks vs. Hornets, 7:30 p.m.

Bucks vs. Rockets, 9 p.m.