Yesterday was Kyrie Irving's birthday. The point guard, who hit the championship-winning shot in the 2016 NBA Finals, turned 25 and was celebrating with a long journey from Denver, Colorado to Charlotte, North Carolina. The 1,563-mile trip can be tiresome and boring for many players, and they often turn to social media to occupy their time. Irving's teammate and Cleveland's superstar small forward LeBron James was in a jovial mood, using his Snapchat account to wish a happy birthday to his point guard. Bron took Kyrie by surprise as he burst into song, singing happy birthday to the players he's dubbed the 'young god.'The Cavaliers players have a reputation as some of the NBA's funniest players on Snapchat; Richard Jefferson uses the platform constantly while Channing Frye and LeBron are big personalities. 

Despite the birthday wishes from his teammate, the perfect late present for the Olympic gold medal-winning guard will be a return to winning ways for the defending champions against the Hornets. 

Cleveland were put to the sword in Denver by a young Nuggets team. They are looking to pull out of a slump that has seen them win five games in the month of March. That is less than the NBA's worst franchise, the Brooklyn Nets, who are 15-56 this season. 

The Wine and Gold have lost seven games so far this month, seeing their lead at the top of the Eastern Conference cut to one game. Their contest with the Boston Celtics on April 5 will be vital in seeing who claims homecourt advantage. 

Of course, the presence of LeBron in the playoffs should see the Cavaliers improve in the postseason (if history is anything to go by) but a James-led team has never looked so unconvincing at this stage.

With just 12 games remaining, the long-term injuries to Kevin Love and JR Smith plus the additions of Kyle Korver, Deron Williams, Derick Williams and Larry Sanders mean the champs are lacking cohesion and understanding, and barely look like championship contenders. 

We've seen time-and-time again that 'The King' can turn it on when it really matters, and there is no doubt that Irving, who has a reputation as a clutch player, will step up to the plate, but home court advantage has to be a priority. 

There is no time for birthday celebrations for Kyrie. Right now it's about switching on and ensuring the Cavaliers retain the one spot they've held all season.