Photo: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports

Cavaliers to Rest “Big 3” Against Memphis

After Tuesday night’s 103-86 win over the Memphis Grizzlies where LeBron James and Kevin Love both scored over 20 points for Cleveland, the Cavaliers have announced they will rest James, Love, and Kyrie Irving Wednesday night in the second-of-two games against Memphis.

The Cavaliers’ record remains at an Eastern Conference-best 18-5. Head coach Tyronn Lue would rather watch his role players battle for a victory than risk the “Big 3” getting injured in their fourth game over the last six days. Also, LeBron James has logged over 40 minutes per game over the last six games.

James does not mind the rest, saying, “I’ve been in this league 14 years. I’ve paid my dues and more than a lot of guys.” “I’ve played in every arena. My coach wanted to rest us. I’m not going to buck my coach. That’s what he wants and that’s what we’re going to do,” the three-time NBA champion finished.

Cleveland is not currently fighting against another team in their conference for the top spot; they’re still 1.5 games ahead of Toronto and will likely coast with the best record in the East until season end. Head coach Lue’s decision to rest the three stars is a Gregg Popovich-like move, a very intelligent one for that matter.

Kyrie Irving, LeBron James, and Kevin Love are all expected to suit up against the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday.