West coast blues continue for Cavaliers in 127-113 loss to Lakers; Three Takeaways

Zizic shines

Lost in the darkness of the upset was a bright spot from Zizic, who went 7-of-9 for 15 points, seven rebounds and two blocks. James found him on a no-look pass to the hoop in the first half, leading to a two-handed slam.

Zizic is a 21-year-old center out of Croatia, an under-the-radar prospect that has developed in the G League for the vast majority of the 2017-18 campaign. He averaged 16.3 points, 9.4 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.1 blocks over 25.4 minutes per 18 games (11 starts) with the Canton Charge earlier this season.

It might be awhile before Zizic receives another demotion to the Canton Memorial Civic Center, the home court for the minor league affiliate of the Wine and Gold.

The Cavaliers acquired Zizic in the same trade that sent Kyrie Irving to Boston. Now that Thomas and Jae Crowder have departed elsewhere, Zizic is the only player remaining from the blockbuster deal.

John Alfes has covered Cleveland sports since August of 2016. Follow him on Twitter @JohnAlfes for breaking news and in-depth coverage all season long.

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