Dwyane Wade and Luol Deng ruined LeBron James’ return to Miami by lifting the Miami Heat past the Cavaliers, 101-91, on Christmas Day.
It was James’ first game in AmericanAirlines Arena since he lost to the San Antonio Spurs in Game 4 of the 2014 NBA Finals as a member of the Heat.
Wade, with Chris Bosh out with a calf injury, led Miami (14-16) with 31 points, five rebounds and five assists. Luol Deng was exceptional in his defense of James. He couldn’t stop him, but he made it tough with his smothering defensive tactics. He also contributed 23 points, eight rebounds and eight assists.
James started the game off sluggishly and indecisively. He committed two turnovers in the first two minutes. As soon as he settled down and got the jitters out, his offensive game returned to form. He put up 27 points and dished out eight assists. It was an emotional evening for him before the game got intense.
After being down by as many as 17, the Cleveland (17-11) clawed back to enter the fourth down three. However, they went 6-of-19 in the final period. It wouldn’t be enough.
Kyire Irving supplied 24 points and Kevin Love added 14 points and five rebounds for the Cavs.
Click here to read more of this story.
About Marion Online Sports
