LOOKING AHEAD

For those who thought neither local team would play a meaningful game after its opener -- OK, for me -- it’s a trip to see tonight’s game at Staples Center between the defending East champion Cleveland Cavaliers and that rising West power . . .

The Clippers?

It’s true. The team that was hoping to hang on until Elton Brand and Shaun Livingston returned -- in February, hopefully -- is now No. 3 in the West.

It’s something to remember when you listen to pundits, or a good reason not to. There are many more things possible than anyone can account for.

Last March 1, the Cavaliers were 33-25 and people were saying LeBron James was tired, hurt, lacked killer instinct and/or wasn’t Michael Jordan. Then they won 17 of their last 24, went to the Finals and LeBron got to host Saturday Night Live as well as the ESPYs.

Next, Chris Kaman Night on SNL?