Dwyane Wade, Heat spoil LeBron's 24th birthday (AP)

Dwyane Wade knew exactly what he wanted to give buddy LeBron James for his birthday: a loss. Miami's star guard had 21 points and 12 assists, and the Heat dropped King James' pro record on birthdays to 0-3 with a 104-95 victory over the visiting Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night. The Heat handed the Cavs only their fifth defeat in 31 games this season and rebounded from a tough loss to them...

Un-Happy Birthday for LeBron: Heat beat Cavs (AP)

Dwyane Wade embraced LeBron James after the final horn sounded, whispering a birthday greeting into his close friend's ear. Even with that, it wasn't a happy 24th for King James. Wade had 21 points and 12 assists, Mario Chalmers was 6-for-7 from 3-point range in a 21-point, eight-assist, no-turnover effort, and the Miami Heat dropped James' pro record on birthdays to 0-3 by beating the Cleveland...

BDL NBA Power Rankings: Look who's looking up (Yahoo! Sports)

The BDL NBA Power Rankings combine two parts champagne with one part flippant observation to create the most...

NBA Power Poll: Lakers bump Celtics from top spot (SportingNews.com)

Who deserves to be at the top of the latest NBA Power Poll? The Christmas Day game tells the story.

’08 NBA stories: Feeling green (Yahoo! Sports)

Kobe and Team USA found gold, but the Celtics' return to championship form stole the show.

Bryant, James named Players of the Week (PA SportsTicker)

Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant helped end the Boston Celtics' historic run. On Monday, he was honored for his impressive week.

Cavaliers cool off Heat 93-86 (AP)

There was a time, not too long ago, when the Cleveland Cavaliers couldn't stop Dwyane Wade from scoring in the fourth quarter. He could do anything he wanted. Not anymore. "He's a difficult player to guard," LeBron James said. "But we've grown as a defensive team." And in so many other ways. James scored 33 points -- four more than his good buddy Wade -- and took on the challenge of guarding the NBA's...

Cavaliers G Szczerbiak out one week (PA SportsTicker)

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Wally Szczerbiak will miss approximately one week due to contusions in his right knee, the team announced Saturday.

Szczerbiak out for 1 week with knee contusions (AP)

Cleveland Cavaliers forward Wally Szczerbiak will miss at least one week with a bruised right knee. The team said in a statement Saturday that Szczerbiak suffered right knee contusions during the last several games. He had an MRI at the Cleveland Clinic on Saturday that confirmed the contusions. Szczerbiak is averaging 6.6 points and 2.6 rebounds this season.

Damon Jones: Ready to Join Bucks (RotoWire)

Open thread: Wizards at Cavaliers (Yahoo! Sports)

Cleveland Cavaliers : 24-4, 89.5 possessions per game (24 th ), 114.2 points scored per 100 possessions (1 st...

Cavaliers storm back to stun Wizards (AP)

In a generous, gift-giving mood, the Cleveland Cavaliers nearly handed a precious win to one of the NBA's neediest teams. Down by seven points in the final minutes to woeful Washington and their home winning streak in serious jeopardy, the Cavaliers clamped down on defense, made their free throws and scored 11 straight points in the final 1:33 to beat the Wizards 93-89 Thursday night Mo Williams...

Howard, Bryant top vote-getters for All-Star game (PA SportsTicker)

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard and Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant lead the Eastern Conference and Western Conferences, respectively, in the latest All-Star voting results, released on Thursday.

Cavs' strong start is music to LeBron's ears (Yahoo! Sports)

LeBron James returned this season hungrier and stronger than ever. So did his supporting cast.

LeBron James to debut 'chalk' shoe (AP)

To launch his newest sneaker, LeBron James and 20,000 fans will turn Quicken Loans Arena into an indoor winter wonderland. When the Cleveland Cavaliers face the Washington Wizards on Christmas night, James will be wearing a "chalk" version of his signature Nike shoe, a tribute to his pregame ritual of tossing and blowing hand rosin into the air above the scorer's table before he takes the court.

LeBron has teams fighting over King's ransom (PA SportsTicker)

If you haven't noticed, LeBron James has a chance to do some special things in 2009.

Power Poll: East looking strong but still lacks West's depth (SportingNews.com)

Looking at the top of this week's poll would probably bring a smile to any of the Eastern Conference GMs who...

LeBron, Cavaliers ground Rockets 99-90 (AP)

LeBron James sat in one corner of Cleveland's locker room soaking his sore feet in a tub full of ice. Like a boxer who just left the ring, he was hurting all over. The Houston Rockets gave him their best shot. "That," James said, "was a heavyweight fight. It felt like a playoff game." James scored 27 points -- 18 in the second half-- and made one of the defining defensive plays of his career by...

Games to pay attention to: Rockets vs. Cavaliers (Yahoo! Sports)

Houston at Cleveland A big night in the L, and I'm sorry if my horrible touch is ruining it for everyone, but...

BDL NBA Power Rankings: 'Tis the season to be ranking ... (Yahoo! Sports)

The BDL NBA Power Rankings combine two parts eggnog with one part flippant observation to create the most...

LeBron isn't the only option for Knicks in 2010 (Yahoo! Sports)

When LeBron James coyly advised New Yorkers to keep their eyes on 2010, he was not promising a marriage with...

James has 31 has Cavs down pesky Thunder 102-91 (AP)

There's a simple reason why LeBron James shifted the conversation from his anticipated free agency in 2010 to the possibility that he'd sign an extension and stay in Cleveland: The Cavaliers keep on winning. James scored 31 points and Mo Williams provided the kind of scoring punch expected out of him when he was brought in to be LeBron's sidekick as Cleveland finished a four-game road trip with a...

LeBron: 'I will consider' re-signing with Cavs this summer (PA SportsTicker)

LeBron James will consider signing a contract extension with the Cleveland Cavaliers this summer, according to a report in the Cleveland Plain Dealer on Saturday.

Report: LeBron James may sign extension early (AP)

LeBron James said he'll consider signing an extension with the Cleveland Cavaliers this summer, well before he enters the free-agent market in 2010. "You play out the season of course; I will consider it," James told The (Cleveland) Plain Dealer before the team practiced in Denver on Saturday. "The direction we are headed is everything I expected and more." James, under contract for two more...

Cavs may keep Szczerbiak unless they can get Carter (Yahoo! Sports)

It's quite possible that the Cleveland Cavaliers will elect to hang onto Wally Szczerbiak's $13.8 million...

James, Ilgauskas lead hot Cavaliers past Nuggets (AP)

The showdown between Olympic teammates LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony quickly turned into more of a smackdown -- and a statement. James said Cleveland's 105-88 runaway win over the Denver Nuggets on Friday night was a shout-out to the rest of the NBA and all those doubters out there who contend the Cavaliers' record -- now 22-4 -- was more a testament of their soft schedule than their...

For Billups, home is where the heart is (Yahoo! Sports)

Chauncey Billups' return to Denver has proven to be an uplifting experience for the Nuggets and his neighborhood.

LeBron's lead Cavs past Wolves, 93-70 (AP)

LeBron James looked relaxed as ever during a rather nonchalant night, a performance still impressive enough for the success-starved Minnesota crowd to warrant a standing ovation upon his departure from the court near game's end. His effort did not go unappreciated by the Cleveland bench, though, after some demonstrative work on defense.

Cavaliers still without Gibson, Ilgauskas (PA SportsTicker)

The Cleveland Cavaliers once again will be without guard Daniel Gibson and center Zydrunas Ilgauskas for Wednesday's game at Minnesota.

Cavs' Ilgauskas getting closer to return (AP)

Cavaliers starting center Zydrunas Ilgauskas is out of the walking boot, but he's not quite ready to get back into Cleveland's lineup. Ilgauskas will miss Wednesday night's game in Minnesota with a sprained left ankle he injured last week in Philadelphia. On Tuesday, Ilgauskas said he's hoping to return to the practice floor on Thursday and maybe play in the Cavs' game in Denver on Friday.

LeBron James' charitable group cuts staff (AP)

The nonprofit organization launched by Cleveland Cavaliers star LeBron James is cutting its staff and some of its charitable work. The LeBron James Family Foundation will produce its annual King for Kids Bikeathon in June with consultants instead of staff to lower administrative costs. "It was a tough decision, but I'm going to continue to be as active as I am," James told The Associated Press on...

Power Poll: Pink slips fly for NBA coaches (SportingNews.com)

Some coaches deserved to get the boot, but others are getting unfair pink slips in unwinnable situations.

BDL NBA Power Rankings: And then there were five, six, seven ... (Yahoo! Sports)

The BDL NBA Power Rankings combine two parts Red Bull with one part flippant observation to create the most...

Marion could be defensive edge for Cavs (Yahoo! Sports)

The Cavs are just one team eyeing the Heat's Shawn Marion as they look to keep pace with the Celtics.

Cavaliers C Ilgauskas, G Gibson sit vs. 76ers (PA SportsTicker)

The Cleveland Cavaliers are without center Zydrunas Ilgauskas and guard Daniel Gibson for Friday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Hawks end Cleveland's 11-game winning streak (AP)

Mike Bibby had a message for all those ambivalent Hawks fans in Atlanta. "I didn't come to watch LeBron James," Bibby said. "I came to play." Bibby scored 24 points, Marvin Williams hit the clinching free throws, and Atlanta snapped the Cleveland Cavaliers' 11-game winning streak with a 97-92 victory Saturday night.

Grizzlies sign Miles (Yahoo! Sports)

Still hoping to revive his career, Darius Miles could threaten the Portland Trail Blazers' salary-cap flexibility if he plays in 10 games.

Grizzlies close to signing Miles (Yahoo! Sports)

Still hoping to revive his career, Darius Miles could threaten the Portland Trail Blazers' salary-cap flexibility if he plays in 10 games.

Cavs win 11th straight, but Celtics' streak at 14 (AP)

The Cleveland Cavaliers are making franchise history, but they aren't making up any ground on the Boston Celtics. The Cavaliers matched a club record Friday night with their 11th straight win, 88-72 over the Philadelphia 76ers. Cleveland (20-3) is 19-1 since starting the season 1-2 and can set a record for consecutive wins in Atlanta on Saturday.

Cavaliers make it 11 straight, beat Sixers (AP)

Wrapped in a pair of towels after his postgame shower, LeBron James paused in front of one of the flatscreen TVs mounted in Cleveland's locker room. He saw the Boston Celtics were winning their 14th straight game. The defending champions are the NBA's hottest team. James' squad is right behind them. James scored 28 points and Anderson Varejao added 17 in his first start this season as the Cavaliers,...

James becomes Cavaliers' all-time steals leader (PA SportsTicker)

LeBron James already hit a milestone Tuesday, becoming the Cleveland Cavaliers' all-time leader in steals.

James, Ilgauskas set franchise records for Cavaliers (PA SportsTicker)

LeBron James already hit a milestone Tuesday, becoming the Cleveland Cavaliers' all-time leader in steals.

Large audience awaits Bosh's next act (Yahoo! Sports)

If Chris Bosh can't win enough with the Raptors, will he look for a bigger stage in 2010?

Cavaliers G Gibson out two weeks (PA SportsTicker)

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Daniel Gibson is expected to miss two weeks with a sprained left big toe, the team announced Wednesday.

Cavs center out with sprained ankle (AP)

Cavaliers center Zydrunas Ilgauskas sprained his left ankle in a win at Philadelphia on Wednesday, the second significant Cleveland player to go down with an injury this week. Ilgauskas rolled his ankle when he tried to block former teammate Donyell Marshall's shot in the fourth quarter and came down on the foot of the 76ers forward.

Pacers' reconstruction taking hold (Yahoo! Sports)

The Pacers aren't winning much, but they're playing hard and staying out of trouble. Larry Bird thinks they've turned the corner.

James lead Cavs to 10th straight win (AP)

LeBron James had to sweat out the fourth quarter for once. The result was still the same: another Cleveland victory. James scored 29 points, Mo Williams added a season-high 27 and the Cavaliers cruised to their 10th consecutive victory, beating the Philadelphia 76ers 101-93 on Wednesday night. "This one, you had to earn," James said.

Cavs' Gibson out with toe injury (AP)

Cavaliers guard Daniel Gibson will miss two weeks with an injured toe in the first setback this season for the NBA's hottest team. Gibson sprained his left big toe in the second quarter of Tuesday night's win over Toronto. He did not travel to Cleveland's game in Philadelphia, staying back Wednesday to be examined by Dr.

Cavs' Gibson, Ilgauskas sidelined by injuries (AP)

Cavaliers guard Daniel Gibson will miss at least two weeks because of a toe injury and center Zydrunas Ilgauskas likely has a sprained left ankle, the team's first significant setbacks of the season. Ilgauskas limped to the locker room with 9:39 left in the fourth of Cleveland's 101-93 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday with an injured left ankle.

Sixers' Brand limited in practice, but should play Wednesday (Yahoo! Sports)

Elton Brand tried to get beyond the noncontact drills during the Philadelphia 76ers ' practice Monday, but the...

James passes Price as Cavs steals leader (AP)

LeBron James and Zydrunas Ilgauskas made more history together Tuesday night. Cleveland's superstar forward became the franchise's career leader in steals while Ilgauskas, the Cavaliers' beloved big man, moved to the top of the team's rebounding chart. By swiping a Toronto pass in the opening minute, James eclipsed Mark Price's steals record.

Cavaliers win ninth straight, 114-94 over Raptors (AP)

The NBA has never seen anything like these Cleveland Cavaliers. On a night when their top two players set franchise records, the Cavs broke a league mark with a 114-94 romp over the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday. LeBron James scored 31 points and became Cleveland's career steals leader and Zydrunas Ilgauskas moved atop the Cavaliers' rebounding chart as Cleveland improved to 12-0 at home with its...

BDL NBA Power Rankings: Every day we shufflin' ... (Yahoo! Sports)

The BDL NBA Power Rankings combine two parts iced tea with one part flippant observation to create the most...

Power Poll: Schedule tells who is the real deal (SportingNews.com)

The Pacers aren't a playoff team, but one look at their schedule tells any smart fan that Indiana has the toughest schedule in the NBA to date.

Cavaliers rout Bobcats 94-74 for 8th straight win (AP)

LeBron James sat in front of his locker an hour before tipoff and joked that if Zydrunas Ilgauskas was closing in on Cleveland's career rebounding record against Charlotte he'd "take one from him." James added that if he was a steal away from breaking the Cavaliers' career franchise record he'd "let one go." James wanted both marks set at home Tuesday night -- and another record-tying rout made...

Former NBA player Blount arrested (AP)

Former NBA player Corie Blount was charged with felony drug possession after authorities saw him pick up a package they knew contained marijuana, then found more marijuana at his home, the Butler County sheriff said Friday. Deputies watched as the U.S. Postal Service delivered a package containing 11 pounds of marijuana to a Liberty Township address northwest of Cincinnati on Thursday.

Cavaliers pound Pacers 97-73 (AP)

After the referees separated Indiana and Cleveland's heated players, Cavaliers guard Mo Williams stood and stared at the Pacers. With his teammates surrounding him, Williams smiled and slowly shook his head from side to side. His unspoken message was simple. "We're not backing down from anybody," Williams said.

Ex-NBA player Blount arrested on drug count (AP)

Former NBA basketball player Corie Blount has been charged with picking up 11 pounds of marijuana in southwest Ohio. Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones said after the 39-year-old Blount retrieved the package from a Liberty Township address on Thursday, deputies followed him to his home nearby and arrested him.

The business of basketball (Yahoo! Sports)

How much is your favorite NBA team worth?

Cavaliers, Celtics looking better every day (AP)

The Cleveland Cavaliers keep rolling at home while the Boston Celtics have been unbeatable almost anywhere. The Eastern Conference's two best teams look better every day. LeBron James scored 21 points then grabbed an early seat on the bench as the Cavaliers improved to 10-0 on their own floor for the first time in their history and won their 14th in 15 games, 118-82 over the New York Knicks on...

Cavaliers rock Knicks 118-82 (AP)

If this keeps up, LeBron James will never leave home. James scored 21 points and then grabbed an early seat on the bench as the Cleveland Cavaliers improved to 10-0 on their own floor for the first time in their history and won for the 14th time in 15 games, 118-82 over the tired and tired-looking New York Knicks on Wednesday night.

Forbes: Knicks most valuable NBA team again (AP)

For the fourth straight year, and despite front office and player turmoil, the New York Knicks are the NBA's most valuable team. The Knicks are worth $613 million, according to Forbes' latest rankings, an increase of 1 percent over their 2007 value. Throughout the past year, the franchise has made many headlines off the court, ranging from former team president Isiah Thomas being found guilty in a...

Power Poll: It's a Lakers-Celtics world (SportingNews.com)

It's a league dominated by the Lakers and Celtics, but do the Lakers really deserve to be above the defending champs? Sean Deveney explains his choice.

James, Cavaliers rolling along (AP)

While he teases New York's voracious media and desperate Knicks fans about his free-agent future, LeBron James and his current team have become an NBA powerhouse. The Cleveland Cavaliers are rolling like never before. At 14-3, they're off to the best start in franchise history. Undefeated through nine home games, the Cavs have won 13 of 14 -- their best stretch since 1989 -- and are blowing out...

Paul, James named Players of the Month (PA SportsTicker)

New Orleans Hornets guard Chris Paul and Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James were named the NBA's Players of the Month for November, the league announced Monday.

BDL NBA Power Rankings: Brandon Roy, Blazers keep rising (Yahoo! Sports)

The BDL NBA Power Rankings combine two parts Dewar's 12 with one part flippant observation to create the most...

James leads sluggish Cavaliers to victory (AP)

LeBron James expects his team to look to him late in close games. The Cleveland Cavaliers certainly did Saturday night. James scored 11 straight points for Cleveland late in the fourth quarter and finished with 32 in the Cavaliers' 97-85 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks. "They should," James said. "I have done it in the past, and I'm going to continue to do it in the future.

Barkley exchanges barbs with LeBron James (Yahoo! Sports)

Charles Barkley had a message for LeBron James this week. James gave him one back on Friday.

Suicide lines: Worldwide Wes, M-V-Bosh, talkin' 'bout turkey ... (Yahoo! Sports)

A handful of NBA-related stories to digest with your T-Giving leftovers ... Frank Isola, NY Daily News : LeBron...

LeBron James blasts Charles Barkley (AP)

LeBron James reacted strongly to Charles Barkley's comments that the Cavaliers star isn't showing respect for Cleveland fans and his teammates by discussing his possible free agency following the 2010 season. "He's stupid. That's all I've got to say about that," James said Friday night before the Cavaliers' game against Golden State.

James, Ilgauskas lead Cleveland past Golden State (AP)

LeBron James sure does look comfortable in Cleveland right now. James scored 23 points, Zydrunas Ilgauskas added a season-high 21, and the Cavaliers matched their best home start in franchise history with a 112-97 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Friday night. Cleveland (13-3) has won 12 of 13 and is a league-best 9-0 at home, equaling its top home start, first set in 1976-77 and repeated...

LeBron's buddy says Knicks are favorite in 2010 (Yahoo! Sports)

LeBron James' future will be debated and analyzed for the next 20 months. There are already whispers that the New...

Cavs need only 17 minutes from James, rout Thunder (AP)

On a night LeBron James matched his career-low in minutes played, the Cleveland Cavaliers made history. Even with James playing just 17 minutes, Cleveland rolled to an 117-82 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night as the Cavaliers raised their record to 12-3, their best start in franchise history.

LeBron no longer teaming with Microsoft (AP)

LeBron James and Microsoft Corp. have lost their Internet connection. The NBA superstar and the software giant have ended a two-year marketing partnership. James' spokesman Keith Estabrook confirmed Wednesday the contract between the Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star and Microsoft is not being renewed. The collaboration led to only one major project -- a Web site geared toward children and teens that was...

LeBron 'flattered' by attention, but focus on Cavs (AP)

Even Spike Lee, that noted Knicks superfan, was a LeBron James guy Tuesday night. And when New York guard Nate Robinson saw the producer had turned traitor and was wearing a pair of the special red "Big Apple" sneakers James was debuting for this game, he immediately began stepping on Lee's foot. "Stop!" Lee said.

Easy night in New York for LeBron as Cavs roll (AP)

The Knicks have two years to convince LeBron James they can be a title contender. His Cleveland Cavaliers showed New York they might be one right now. James scored 26 points before sitting out the fourth quarter, and the Cavaliers quickly took a charged-up New York crowd out of the game in a 119-101 victory Tuesday night.

LeBron will wear 'Big Apple' sneakers at Garden Tuesday (Yahoo! Sports)

The New York Knicks may not be able to LeBron James directly how much they want him for a couple more years.

Can we let LeBron James play? (Yahoo! Sports)

There's no point in trying to tell you that it doesn't make sense for us to be wondering aloud as to where...

BDL NBA Power Rankings: Nuggets rising, Raptors diving (Yahoo! Sports)

The BDL NBA Power Rankings combine two parts Crystal Pepsi with one part flippant observation to create the...

LeBron coming to New York for his Garden party (AP)

Last time LeBron James played in New York, he exited the floor to "MVP!" chants, a standing ovation, and even a fan coming onto the court to meet him. If James thought New Yorkers loved him then, wait until he sees the reception he's bound to get this time. James' first visit to New York this season arrives just days after the Knicks boldly positioned themselves for a potential run at the Cleveland...

James, Cavs soar past Hawks, 110-96 (AP)

As the rim neared and with two 6-foot-10 players in his path, LeBron James took flight unsure of his next move. So he dunked -- left-handed. "I just kind of made that one up," he said. James didn't reach his scoring average and it didn't matter as the Cleveland Cavaliers rolled past the Atlanta Hawks 110-96 on Saturday night for their ninth win in 10 games.

New York facing pressure to deliver James (Yahoo! Sports)

The Knicks have the money to buy LeBron James a new sidekick. But can they also buy him credibility?

Behind the box score, where the Cavs can score now (Yahoo! Sports)

Cleveland 106, New Jersey 82 The Cleveland Cavaliers are first in the NBA in offensive efficiency right now.

Iverson scores 23 to push Pistons past Cavs (AP)

The Detroit Pistons are starting to show their potential with Allen Iverson, beating two of the NBA's best teams in less than a week. Iverson scored 23 points, and Rasheed Wallace had 10 of his 21 points during a fourth-quarter surge that gave Detroit a 96-89 victory over Cleveland on Wednesday night that ended the Cavaliers' eight-game winning streak.

James' decision will hinge on winning 'muliple championships' (Yahoo! Sports)

The New York media was out in force Tuesday and they all wanted to know the same thing: What is LeBron James...

LeBron James: NBA's youngest to 11,000 points (AP)

Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James replaced Kobe Bryant on Tuesday as the youngest player in NBA history to score 11,000 points. James (23 years, 323 days) reached the plateau with a wide-open jump shot set up by a great crossover dribble late in the first quarter of the Cavaliers' game with the New Jersey Nets.

LeBron thinking about free agency before 2010 (AP)

While his free agency is still two years away, LeBron James won't hesitate to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers if another franchise offers the superstar a better chance to win multiple NBA titles. "I think you do what is best for you and you do what is best for your career," James said Tuesday night when asked about his sense of loyalty to the Cavaliers before they played the Nets in New Jersey.

LeBron James scores 31 in showcase win over Nets (AP)

With free agency awaiting him in 2010, LeBron James put on a show for the New York metropolitan area and its deep-pocket teams highlighted by length-of-the court sprint to block a dunk by Devin Harris. James had 31 points, eight rebounds and four assists in another dominating performance and the Cleveland Cavaliers rolled to their eighth straight win with a 106-82 decision over the New Jersey Nets...

NBA Power Poll: Ranking teams, sizing up rookies (SportingNews.com)

After Anthony Morrow put up 37 points in his first start for the Warriors, it only seemed right to take a closer look at the rookies in this week's Power Poll.

James, Billups win weekly honors (PA SportsTicker)

Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James on Monday was named the Eastern Conference's Player of the Week.

18 teams in a position to recruit LeBron in 2010 (Yahoo! Sports)

Research and projections done by The Plain Dealer reveal that currently there are 18 teams in position to offer...

BDL NBA Power Rankings: Shattered dreams, broken promises (Yahoo! Sports)

The BDL NBA Power Rankings combine two parts Chivas Regal with one part flippant observation to create the most...

LeBron James hopes Yankees sign CC Sabathia (AP)

LeBron James is convinced CC Sabathia will end up in pinstripes. The Cleveland Cavaliers superstar and New York Yankees fan wants his favorite baseball team to land Sabathia, the top starting pitcher in this year's free-agent class. The Yankees have formulated a proposal to Sabathia that would exceed Johan Santana's $137.5 million, six-year contract with the New York Mets both in total and average.

James leads Cavs past short-handed Jazz, 105-93 (AP)

LeBron James calls the fourth quarter "winning time." The Cleveland Cavaliers superstar proved that yet again Saturday night. James scored 16 of his 38 points in the final period, leading a second-half rally that gave the Cavaliers their seventh straight victory, 105-93 over the short-handed Utah Jazz.

Cavs F Wallace questionable for Saturday (PA SportsTicker)

Cleveland Cavaliers forward Ben Wallace is questionable for Saturday's game against the Utah Jazz with a left knee contusion.

Power Poll: Point guard play makes big difference (SportingNews.com)

Mo Williams has upgraded the Cavaliers' offense and moved the team into the top 5 of this week's poll.

James, Cavaliers beat Nuggets 110-99 (AP)

In the locker room at halftime, Cavaliers coach Mike Brown forced his players to watch a horror flick -- highlights of their defense in the first half. "We were watching film and it was as ugly as it looked," Mo Williams said. After allowing 61 points in a first-half track meet, the Cavaliers buckled down, held Denver to 38 after halftime and won their sixth straight, 110-99 over the Nuggets on...

James scores 41 as Cavaliers beat Bucks (AP)

LeBron James supplied the Cleveland Cavaliers with a double dose of 40. James matched a season-high with 41 points in a season-best 43 minutes and Mo Willams scored 16 against his former team, leading the Cavaliers to their fifth straight win, 99-93 over the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday night. It was the third time in four games that James has scored exactly 41.

James, Stoudemire honored by NBA (PA SportsTicker)

Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James was named the Eastern Conference Player of the Week on Monday.

BDL NBA Power Rankings: From sea to shining sea (Yahoo! Sports)

The BDL NBA Power Rankings combine two parts Crown Royal with one part flippant observation to create the most...

James scores 41, Cavs beat Bulls (AP)

LeBron James saw defenders come at him from all angles and did what he normally does. He made them look invisible. James toyed with Chicago again, scoring 41 points for the second time in four days, and the Cleveland Cavaliers hung on to beat the Bulls 106-97 on Saturday night. This one came after a big performance in a 14-point win over Chicago at home Wednesday night.

James, Varejao lead Cleveland past Pacers, 111-107 (AP)

LeBron James got plenty of help on offense, then sealed the victory with a spectacular play on defense. James scored 27 points, Anderson Varejao added 10 of his career-high 18 in the fourth quarter, and the Cleveland Cavaliers rallied to beat the Indiana Pacers 111-107 on Friday night. Mo Williams, a key offseason acquisition from Milwaukee, finished with 21 points for Cleveland, which trailed...

James awed by Obama's win (AP)

His two young sons at his side and surrounded by family members overcome by emotion, LeBron James witnessed history on Tuesday night. And when Barack Obama walked onto the stage in Chicago's Grant Park as the country's first African-American president, Cleveland's superstar tried to grasp the awe-inspiring moment.

James scores 41 in Cavs' 107-93 win over Bulls (AP)

This herd of Bulls got run over and over and over. Once LeBron James decided he was going to the basket, there wasn't anything Chicago's defense could do to stop him. It's not like they didn't try. Muscling inside at will and blasting to the rim almost every time he touched the ball, James scored a season-high 41 points -- 15 on free throws -- with ease and Zydrunas Ilgauskas added 15 points and 10...

NBA Power Poll: Votes are in, Lakers take top billing (SportingNews.com)

It took me more than an hour to vote this morning, and that was with me getting up at 5:45 and getting to my...

LeBron, Mo Williams lead Cavs past Mavs (AP)

LeBron James snapped a third-quarter tie with a flying rebound-layup, then Mo Williams broke things open early in the fourth, sending the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 100-81 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Monday night. James was only 8-of-20, but scored 29 points and took over when his team needed it.

Pistons get Iverson now, LeBron later? (Yahoo! Sports)

Detroit GM Joe Dumars made trade for Allen Iverson with eye on landing Cavaliers star in 2010.

Paul lifts unbeaten Hornets over Cavaliers (AP)

Chris Paul had an overflow crowd on its feet before he'd even removed his warmups, showing off his Olympic gold medal during the pregame ceremonies for the Hornets' home opener. Now Paul seeks to add an NBA championship to his basketball resume and has to feel good about his chances with the help he's getting from new teammate James Posey.

James, Gibson help Cavs tame Bobcats (AP)

LeBron James watched, waited and wondered if he was ever going back into the game. Once he re-entered, he was hardly needed. Branded a one-man team in the past, the Cavaliers showed they can survive without their superstar. James scored 22 points but was resting on the bench when Cleveland regained control in the fourth quarter, and the Cavaliers won their home opener 96-79 over Charlotte on...

James, Jay-Z rally for Obama (AP)

On his home court, LeBron James tried to swing some votes toward a guy who loves to play basketball nearly as much as he does. The NBA superstar hosted a free concert Wednesday night by Grammy-winning hip hop star Jay-Z for Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama, a former high school hoop star who still enjoys lacing up his sneakers and playing ball when he isn't on the campaign trail.

Sources: Foreign owners eye Nets (Yahoo! Sports)

Franchise's struggles to get Brooklyn arena built spur outside overtures.

Banner 17, win No. 1 for NBA champion Celtics (AP)

Banner No. 17 is up in the rafters, and win No. 1 is in the books. NBA finals MVP Paul Pierce scored 27 points and the defending champion Boston Celtics followed an emotional ring ceremony and banner-raising with a 90-85 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night. LeBron James scored 22, but he missed a driving layup with 41 seconds left and two free throws in the last 11 seconds.

Cavs are on the clock before LeBron sweepstakes (PA SportsTicker)

LeBron James and Jay-Z are scheduled to lead a rally for supporters of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama at Quicken Loans Arena on Wednesday, hours after the Cleveland Cavaliers open the 2008-09 season on the road against the Boston Celtics.

AccuScore season preview: Cavaliers (Yahoo! Sports)

SEASON FORECAST BASED ON 10,000 SIMULATED SEASONS TEAM TOTALS W L PS PA WIN DIVISION PLAYOFFS Cleveland...

Dancer injured during preseason game (AP)

A member of the Cleveland Cavaliers' dance squad was taken off the court on a stretcher after landing on the side of his face while attempting a stunt during a preseason game against the Washington Wizards. Following the injury Friday night, members of both teams gathered near the scorers table and bowed their heads.

James leads Cavs past Wizards (AP)

LeBron James had a preseason-high 26 points, Mo Williams added 15 and the Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Washington Wizards 107-80 on Friday night in the exhibition finale for both teams. The Cavaliers (3-5) had their highest scoring total of the preseason and committed only nine turnovers in the game at Ohio State's Value City Arena.

Cavs release F Ronald Dupree (AP)

The Cavaliers released forward Ronald Dupree on Thursday and gave their final roster spot to forward Jawad Williams, a Cleveland native. The 6-foot-9 Williams averaged 5.5 points in four exhibition games with the Cavs. The former Lakewood St. Edward star won a national title while at North Carolina. He beat out five other free agents to make the team.

Stuckey leads Pistons to 97-79 win over Cavaliers (AP)

Tayshaun Prince's post-Olympic slump might finally be over. Prince, averaging just seven points on 31 percent shooting, scored 17 points in 29 minutes Wednesday night, and the Pistons beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 97-79. The Cavaliers were playing without LeBron James, who was in uniform but took a planned night off.

James scores 20 points to lead Cavs past 76ers (AP)

LeBron James scored 20 points and had eight rebounds, four assists and four steals before sitting out the fourth quarter of the Cleveland Cavaliers' 91-83 win over the Philadelphia 76ers in a preseason game Tuesday night. James' soaring slam dunk off an alley-oop pass from Ben Wallace late in the second period provided the game's highlight.

Cavaliers F Jackson injures wrist, out five to six weeks (PA SportsTicker)

Cleveland Cavaliers forward Darnell Jackson suffered a non-displaced fracture of his left wrist and is expected to be out five to six weeks, the team announced after Saturday's 100-93 preseason victory over the Philadelphia 76ers.

Cavaliers' Jackson out with fractured left wrist (AP)

Cleveland Cavaliers rookie forward Darnell Jackson is out indefinitely with a fractured left wrist. Jackson, who played in Cleveland's first four exhibition games, first told the team on Tuesday the wrist was bothering him. He played 11 minutes in Thursday night's game against San Antonio, and an examination on Friday revealed the fracture.

Cavaliers' Williams ejected from game with 76ers (AP)

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Mo Williams was ejected Saturday night in the first quarter of a game against Philadelphia. Williams and 76ers guard Andre Miller were assessed double technicals at the 6:27 mark. Williams drew an offensive foul from Miller, who tossed the ball on the Cleveland player while he was on the floor.

Late rally leads Cavs past Philadelphia, 100-93 (AP)

Delonte West was tired yet satisfied after the Cleveland Cavaliers rallied for their first preseason victory, 100-93 over the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday night. West scored six of his team-high 17 points down the stretch as the Cavaliers, trailing 91-80 with 4:14 left, finished the game on a 20-2 run.

Can the Celtics be caught, can the Lakers hang on? (AP)

One turn at the top of the NBA wasn't going to make Kevin Garnett forget all those years on the bottom. And he can't believe that people would think otherwise. So when Garnett heard the theory that he, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen couldn't possibly be as driven now as they were before finally winning their first NBA title, he wondered if the skeptics had been paying attention all along.

Cavs' Delonte West being treated for mood disorder (AP)

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Delonte West contemplated quitting before leaving the team's training camp to seek help for depression and "a mood disorder" he has been battling his entire life. West, who recently signed a two-year contract with Cleveland, said he removed himself from the team to "get my thoughts back together." He missed three preseason games during his absence from Oct.

Cleveland Cavaliers 2008-09 preview (SportingNews.com)

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Duncan leads San Antonio past Cleveland (AP)

Tim Duncan had 16 points and 13 rebounds in 26 minutes and the San Antonio Spurs beat Cleveland 91-70 on Thursday night, dropping the Cavaliers to 0-4 in exhibition play. Matt Bonner added 15 points, going 3-for-3 from 3-point range and 6-for-7 overall from the field, for the Spurs (2-2). Tony Parker had 14 points and five assists after missing the Spurs' game Tuesday night against Detroit because...

BDL's 2008-09 NBA Season Preview: Cleveland Cavaliers (Yahoo! Sports)

As the NBA preseason marches on, Ball Don't Lie looks at all 30 teams, outlining off-season transactions,...

Celtics beat Cavaliers 90-86 in preseason game (AP)

Leon Powe scored 17 points in the second half, including the go-ahead basket with just over two minutes left, to lead the Boston Celtics to a 90-86 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers in a preseason game Tuesday night. Powe's dunk with 2 minutes, 17 seconds remaining put the Celtics ahead 85-84. Boston trailed 81-74 following an 8-0 Cleveland run early in the fourth quarter.

Cavaliers F-C Wallace to miss exhibition game (PA SportsTicker)

Cleveland Cavaliers forward-center Ben Wallace will miss Tuesday's exhibition game against the Boston Celtics in Pittsburgh due to lower back tightness.

Cavaliers think they can challenge Celtics for NBA title (Yahoo! Sports)

Hey, Celtics, Cavaliers newcomer Mo Williams has something to say and you can "take that how you...

Allen's 25 points helps Celtics beat Cavs (AP)

LeBron James only needed two preseason games to get back into a groove. The Cleveland star scored 12 points in the first quarter, finishing with 15 in 13 1/2 minutes on Friday night to help the Cavaliers open an early lead before the Boston reserves took over and led the NBA champions to a 96-94 victory.

Cavaliers G-F Pavlovic will not play Friday (PA SportsTicker)

Cleveland Cavaliers swingman Sasha Pavlovic will not travel with the team to Providence, Rhode Island, for Friday's preseason game against the Boston Celtics due to a right ankle injury.

Cavs release deaf reserve center Allred (AP)

Center Lance Allred, the first legally deaf player in the NBA, was released Wednesday by the Cleveland Cavaliers. He played four minutes in Cleveland's 104-84 exhibition loss to Toronto on Tuesday. Allred was signed to a pair of 10-day contracts last March before the team signed him for the remainder of the season in April.

Raptors down Cavaliers 104-84 as James rests (AP)

LeBron James spent a rare night relaxing on the bench, Mo Williams showed why Cleveland traded for him this summer, and the Cavaliers opened their exhibition season with a 104-84 loss to the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday night. James played just 8 minutes in the first quarter before he raised his hand for a substitute and coach Mike Brown pulled his superstar for the remainder of Cleveland's...

Rivers finds new challenge for Celtics (Yahoo! Sports)

The NBA's champions begin the season with a message from their coach: One title isn't enough.

The Internets are alive: Bobcats extend offer sheet to Landry (Yahoo! Sports)

The Charlotte Bobcats have extended an offer to restricted Rockets free agent Carl Landry, leaving Houston with...

James confident he can lead Cavaliers to NBA crown (AP)

LeBron James keeps his Olympic gold medal in his home office, and from time to time Cleveland's star takes a peek at it. "It's a pretty sight," he said. James spent part of his summer helping the U.S. basketball team redeem its global superiority by winning it all at the Beijing Games. At just 23, he was the undisputed leader of that 12-player squad comprised of superstar talents and supersized egos.

Cavs owner unhappy with talk of James leaving (AP)

LeBron James may wear a New York Yankees hat everywhere from his hometown of Akron to Beijing, but Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert thinks rampant speculation that the superstar will leave Cleveland in two years is "an insult to the city." Gilbert said James has given him no indication that he plans to leave for New York after his contract expires in 2010.

James confident he can lead Cavaliers to NBA crown (AP)

LeBron James keeps his Olympic gold medal in his home office, and from time to time Cleveland's star takes a peek at it. "It's a pretty sight," he said. James spent part of his summer helping the U.S. basketball team redeem its global superiority by winning it all at the Beijing Games. At just 23, he was the undisputed leader of that 12-player squad comprised of superstar talents and supersized egos.

James confident he can lead Cavaliers to NBA crown (AP)

LeBron James keeps his Olympic gold medal in his home office, and from time to time Cleveland's star takes a peek at it. "It's a pretty sight," he said. James spent part of his summer helping the U.S. basketball team redeem its global superiority by winning it all at the Beijing Games. At just 23, he was the undisputed leader of that 12-player squad comprised of superstar talents and supersized egos.

Cavs owner unhappy with talk of James leaving (AP)

LeBron James may wear a New York Yankees hat everywhere from his hometown of Akron to Beijing, but Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert thinks rampant speculation that the superstar will leave Cleveland in two years is "an insult to the city." Gilbert said James has given him no indication that he plans to leave for New York after his contract expires in 2010.

The Internets are alive: Bobcats extend offer sheet to Landry (Yahoo! Sports)

The Charlotte Bobcats have extended an offer to restricted Rockets free agent Carl Landry, leaving Houston with...

The Internets are alive: Bobcats extend offer sheet to Landry (Yahoo! Sports)

The Charlotte Bobcats have extended an offer to restricted Rockets free agent Carl Landry, leaving Houston with...

Cavaliers sign G West (PA SportsTicker)

The Cleveland Cavaliers have locked up Delonte West.

Cavaliers sign guard Delonte West (AP)

Two prolonged contract holdouts early last season hurt the Cleveland Cavaliers, damaging their chances of getting back to the NBA finals. They made sure it wouldn't happen again. The club signed restricted free agent guard Delonte West to a two-year contract Friday, a deal that includes a third-year club option for 2011-12.

James' loyalties irk Cleveland fans (AP)

LeBron James may raise the ire of local fans by wearing a New York Yankees cap or cheering for the Dallas Cowboys, but another of the city's biggest sports stars isn't bothered by the NBA icon's out-of-town loyalties. As far as Browns wide receiver Braylon Edwards is concerned, James can root, root, root for any team he wishes.

Cavaliers sign forward Darnell Jackson (AP)

The Cleveland Cavaliers signed forward Darnell Jackson on Saturday. The Cavaliers acquired the rights to Jackson, 22, from Miami during this year's NBA draft in exchange for one of Cleveland's two second round picks in 2009. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. The 6-foot-8, 250-pound forward averaged 11.2 points and a team-high 6.7 rebounds in 40 games during his senior year at Kansas.

Cavaliers sign F Jackson (PA SportsTicker)

The Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday signed forward Darnell Jackson, whose rights were acquired from the Miami Heat during this year's draft.

Cavaliers sign C Wright (PA SportsTicker)

The Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday signed veteran center Lorenzen Wright.

Cavaliers sign F/C Lorenzen Wright (AP)

The Cavaliers signed center Lorenzen Wright on Friday to help offset the loss up front of forward Joe Smith. Cleveland has been looking for some frontcourt size since Smith was traded as part of the three-team deal with Memphis and Milwaukee that brought guard Mo Williams to Cleveland. The 6-foot-11, 255-pound Wright played 12 games for Atlanta and five for Sacramento last season, averaging less...

LeBron loses at H-O-R-S-E but enjoying his gold (AP)

LeBron James could be excused for his poor shooting from behind the arc, and for being blown out in a game of H-O-R-S-E with a warehouse worker in a beach exhibition. James was still floating in the clouds from his Olympic experience. "I still haven't (come down). It's an unbelievable experience to go out there and represent your country the way we were able to do it, showcasing our talent to the...

LeBron James enjoying his gold (AP)

LeBron James could be excused for his poor shooting from behind the arc, and for being blown out in a game of H-O-R-S-E with a warehouse worker in a beach exhibition. James was still floating in the clouds from his Olympic experience. "I still haven't (come down). It's an unbelievable experience to go out there and represent your country the way we were able to do it, showcasing our talent to the...

LeBron James to be featured in new documentary (AP)

LeBron James has gone from the gold-medal stand to the silver screen. The Cavaliers' megastar, fresh off helping the U.S. basketball team win gold at the Beijing Olympics, will be at the Toronto International Film Festival this weekend for the debut of "More Than A Game," a documentary chronicling his rise to stardom and how he and four childhood friends overcame long odds to win a national...

Mo Williams means less pressure on LeBron James (AP)

Mo Williams hasn't been a Cavalier for long, but he already knows his role: Take some pressure off LeBron James and help Cleveland win a championship. Just after James led the U.S. to a spot in the medal round at the Olympics in Beijing, Williams told reporters on a teleconference Thursday that he can help the Cavaliers superstar.

Bucks trade Williams to Cavaliers in six-player deal (PA SportsTicker)

By PA SportsTicker

Report: Bucks trade Williams to Cavaliers (PA SportsTicker)

The Milwaukee Bucks have traded guard Mo Williams to the Cleveland Cavaliers as part of a three-team deal, ESPN.com reported Wednesday.

Mo Williams headlines 6-player, 3-team trade (AP)

The Cleveland Cavaliers are getting some help for LeBron James. With James in Beijing for the Olympics, high-scoring Milwaukee point guard Mo Williams is headed to Cleveland as part of a three-team trade that also involves Oklahoma City. The six-player deal completed Wednesday reshapes the rebuilding Bucks while giving Cleveland an additional scoring threat and Oklahoma City an instant fan favorite...

Williams headlines six-player, three-team trade (AP)

The Cleveland Cavaliers are getting some help for LeBron James. High-scoring Milwaukee point guard Mo Williams is headed to Cleveland to join James as part of a three-team trade involving Milwaukee and Oklahoma City. Agents for Williams and Desmond Mason said Wednesday a six-player deal is being finalized that reshapes the rebuilding Bucks while giving Cleveland an additional scoring threat and...

Should NBA fear a mass exodus of talent to Europe? (AP)

It's the summer of 2010 and LeBron James is trying to decide whether to stay in Cleveland, leave for New York -- or accept a deal for $50 million a year to play in Italy. Far-fetched? Impossible? Perhaps, but the steady stream this summer of American players heading to Europe, where the euro dwarfs the dollar, the salary cap doesn't apply and the game is rapidly improving, has changed the dynamic...

Celtics open vs. Cavs; play Lakers on Christmas (AP)

The Boston Celtics begin defense of their NBA title on opening night against LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers, and will face the Los Angeles Lakers in a finals rematch on Christmas Day. The Celtics will host the Cavaliers, who they beat in seven games in last season's Eastern Conference semifinals, on Oct.

Report: LeBron would consider Europe if offered $50 million (PA SportsTicker)

The Cleveland Cavaliers reportedly will have more suitors for LeBron James than expected, according to a published report Tuesday.

Agent: NBA veteran Boykins signs with Italian team (AP)

Unrestricted free agent Earl Boykins signed a one-year, $3.5 million deal Tuesday to play with Virtus Bologna of the Italian league, the latest NBA player to sign a deal with an overseas club. Andy Bountogianis of the Cleveland-based Mark Termini Associates Inc. sports agency, confirmed the signing. The 32-year-old point guard will be the highest-paid player in Italy for the 2008-09 season.

Cavaliers sign G Kinsey (PA SportsTicker)

The Cleveland Cavaliers signed guard Tarence Kinsey on Monday.

Cavs sign G Tarence Kinsey (AP)

The Cleveland Cavaliers, looking to add backcourt depth, signed former Memphis Grizzlies guard Tarence Kinsey on Monday. Kinsey split last season between Memphis and Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul in the Turkish league. In his second season with Memphis, he averaged 3.6 points and 8.7 minutes in 11 games. In Turkey, the 6-foot-6 Kinsey averaged 9.2 points in 14 games.

Cavaliers contact Sixers' Lou Williams? (Yahoo! Sports)

The Philadelphia 76ers took a day off from signing players, but no day goes by without the name of one of their...

Cavaliers' West ponders going east (Yahoo! Sports)

Another free agent could be headed overseas with Moscow courting Delonte West.

James expected to miss exhibition (PA SportsTicker)

Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James is not expected to play in Friday's exhibition game against Canada after suffering a mild right ankle sprain earlier in the week while practicing with the United States Olympic team.

LeBron sprains ankle at Team USA practice (PA SportsTicker)

Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James suffered a mild right ankle sprain Tuesday while practicing with the United States Olympic team, according to the Las Vegas Sun.

Mavs will probably not be able to keep Devean George (Yahoo! Sports)

The probability of swingman Devean George returning to the Dallas Mavericks next season appears to be decreasing...

Cavs sign G Gibson to multi-year deal (PA SportsTicker)

The Cleveland Cavaliers brought back Daniel Gibson on Wednesday, signing the guard to a multi-year contract.

Gallinari gives Knicks pause, then hope (Yahoo! Sports)

Danilo Gallinari's debut was at least half a success. The Knicks saw enough to remember why they drafted him.

Hornets reward Posey for title role in Boston (Yahoo! Sports)

James Posey is much more popular this summer than last. So much so the Hornets will pay him $25 million to leave Boston.

Cavaliers sign Gibson to 5-year deal (AP)

The Cavaliers finally made a move this offseason, signing sharpshooter Daniel Gibson to a five-year contract Wednesday. Bringing back Gibson, a restricted free agent, was one of Cleveland's top priorities. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. The guard averaged a career-high 10.4 points on 43 percent shooting last season.

Gallinari gives Knicks pause then hope (Yahoo! Sports)

Danilo Gallinari's debut was at least half a success. The Knicks saw enough to remember why they drafted him.

Cavaliers sign draft pick Hickson (AP)

The Cleveland Cavaliers signed first-round draft pick J.J. Hickson on Thursday. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Cleveland selected the 19-year-old Hickson with the 19th pick in the NBA draft. The 6-foot-9 forward played just one season at North Carolina State before turning pro. Hickson earned ACC All-Freshman Team honors and was honorable mention All-ACC after averaging 14.8 points with a...

Cavaliers sign first-round pick Hickson (PA SportsTicker)

The Cleveland Cavaliers signed first-round pick J.J. Hickson on Thursday.

Arenas away from basketball until August (AP)

Gilbert Arenas has stayed off the basketball court since the Washington Wizards were eliminated from the NBA playoffs in early May. That's because the three-time All-Star's knee ached as he tried a hasty comeback from a second operation in November, which ended his season midway through the first-round loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Mantras all the new draftees should learn (SportingNews.com)

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'Tractor' Traylor rejoins Cavs for summer league (AP)

Robert "Tractor" Traylor will rejoin the Cavaliers -- for the summer at least. Traylor was selected Tuesday to Cleveland's 13-member summer league roster. The team is made up of young players like Cavaliers rookies J.J. Hickson and Darnell Jackson. Traylor last played for the Cavaliers in 2005 and is one of the few veterans on the roster.

Grading the draft: Bulls among the As, Sonics fail (SportingNews.com)

Sam Smith gives his opinion on every team's draft haul.

After Durant, little else is OK with Sonics (SportingNews.com)

And so, barring a miraculous decision in the lawsuit by former owner Howard Schultz, the Seattle SuperSonics...

NBA mock draft: Real drama starts at No. 3 (SportingNews.com)

Again, like in 2007, the big question going into Thursday's NBA draft is, "What is Kevin going to do?" Though...

Mock draft: Does Pat Riley have eyes for O.J. Mayo? (SportingNews.com)

That the Chicago Bulls will take Derrick Rose with the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft seems to be a foregone conclusion. Sam Smith breaks down how the rest of the first round will shake out.

LeBron committed to Cavs despite N.Y. rumors (SportingNews.com)

Faced with questions about signing with the Knicks or Nets when he becomes a free agent in 2010, LeBron James said he will remain committed to the Cavaliers as long as they remain committed to winning an NBA championship.

A most unusual and irreverent NBA mock draft (SportingNews.com)

At the NBA draft, millions of dollars are involved, jobs are hanging in the balance, and the future of the league is at stake. This is business, serious business -- but that doesn't mean there can't be a mock draft with a sense of humor.

It appears Maggette's days as a Clipper are done (Yahoo! Sports)

Corey Maggette on Thursday sounded almost certain that his Clippers career had come to an end.

LeBron James helping kids save planet (AP)

LeBron James has a new teammate who's just as popular. The guy has a few holes in his game. Oh, and he lives in a pineapple under the sea. SpongeBob SquarePants won't help James win any NBA titles, but the Cavaliers' superstar has paired up with Nickelodeon, the home of SpongeBob and his ocean-dwelling cartoon chums, to raise awareness about the environment.

Team-by-team draft grades (Yahoo! Sports)

Teams receive report cards for their performance in the 2008 draft.

Draft-day buzz: Ibaka letter, Hibbert to Charlotte (Yahoo! Sports)

Charlotte wants Roy Hibbert, Joe Alexander to Bucks, Serge Ibaka demands second round and other draft buzz.

Cavs exploring options for NBA draft (AP)

He's Danny Ferry, not Danny Ainge. And Cleveland's general manager has no illusions of matching what his colleague did last summer. With two major trades, Ainge revived the Boston Celtics and turned them into NBA champions. He dumped a few contracts and players on Seattle to get Ray Allen on draft night a year ago and later acquired Kevin Garnett from Minnesota for five players and two first-round...

Celtics, Lakers favorites to win 2009 NBA title (Yahoo! Sports)

In case you're curious, here are the current odds for the 2009 NBA championship, courtesty of Bodog: Boston...

Game 6 draws best NBA finals ratings since 2000 (AP)

Game 6 drew the highest NBA finals television ratings in eight years. The Boston Celtics' deciding victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night earned a 10.7 rating on ABC, the network said Wednesday. It's the highest since Game 6 of the 2000 finals on NBC between the Lakers and Indiana Pacers.

Cavs deny Ilgauskus Olympic bid (PA SportsTicker)

The Cleveland Cavaliers will not permit Zydrunas Ilgauskas to play in the Olympics for the Lithuanian National team, citing insufficient insurance for their injury-prone center.

Cavs G Gibson has ankle surgery (PA SportsTicker)

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Daniel Gibson underwent successful ankle surgery Tuesday.

Cavs' Daniel Gibson has ankle surgery (AP)

Cavaliers guard Daniel Gibson had arthroscopic surgery on his left ankle Tuesday and is expected to be ready for training camp. The second-year guard, a restricted free agent, had the operation in Houston, his hometown. The team said he is expected to start rehab next week. Gibson sprained his ankle Feb.

The Internets are alive: Lakers-Celtics NBA Finals hype, Day 3 (Yahoo! Sports)

Despite the layoff, the Celtics and Lakers are, in fact, playing basketball later this week.

Cavs owner not panicking about LeBron's future - ESPN.com

Cavs owner on LeBron's future in Cleveland: 'Don't worry about it'

CLEVELAND -- LeBron James could be playing elsewhere in three years. New York. Brooklyn. Los Angeles. Miami. Anywhere, really.

It's possible he never leaves home, too.

Although some anxious Cleveland fans are worrying about their megastar's long-term future, Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert isn't sweating it.

Read the rest of the article here at ESPN.com - http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3405356

Lebron James Videos

Miami Heat testing the waters with No. 2 pick (SportingNews.com)

Conventional wisdom has the Heat taking Michael Beasley with the No. 2 pick in next month's draft. Not so fast, say NBA sources.

Cleveland Cavaliers Tickets - Is Lebron’s Supporting Cast Good Enough?

By Jay Nault

Cleveland Cavaliers tickets have seemingly always been a chance for many to see what they feel is the “next Jordan.” Of course, that moniker has been given to others before LeBron James, but as he progresses into his career, the parallels are becoming more prevalent. Early in his career, Jordan was criticized for not getting his teammates involved, but looking back, the apparent reason was that his teammates usually weren’t good enough to close out games. Is LeBron finding himself in the same predicament?



The Cavaliers currently sit with a 30-21 record, which is more than good enough to get into the playoffs in the weak Eastern Conference. Not to mention, the Cavs pushed the Pistons to the brink last year before bowing out in a rugged, physical series. Their core from last season returned largely intact, and the Cavs have basically picked up where they left off in the playoffs.



However, are the Cavs headed for the same fate as last season? A look at a few of their other starters may help predict what will ultimately become of this team:



PG Daniel Gibson



Gibson only recently moved into the starting lineup, so it’s too early to tell how this young PG will do, but so far, even though he’s been solid, he’s not yet a difference-maker.



SG Larry Hughes



Hughes is coming back from injury, so like Gibson, it’s a little early to tell just how he’ll contribute in the big picture. He’s as athletic as any guard in the league, but he’s shooting just over 40% from the field, and that needs to be better if the Cavs are going to take that next step.



C Zydrunas Ilgauskas



It wasn’t too long ago that “Z” was the biggest reason to get Cleveland Cavaliers tickets. It’s always been the same story with him, however - highly skilled, can score with the best, but injury-prone. His minutes are down a bit this year and he’s been healthy, but he’ll have to remain that way if the Cavs are going to break through to the NBA Finals.



PF Drew Gooden



Gooden is a strong physical presence, and is a prototypical “lunch pail” guy. He scores mostly off rebounds, gets a lot of boards, and plays decent defense. However, like so many others in the starting five, he’s not the type to take over a game, but will play an important role in a playoff run.



What Does it all Mean?



In looking at the Cavaliers’ lineup, you see a lot of role players and hard workers, but what the Cavaliers really seem to be missing is that second option for those nights when LeBron isn’t feeling it. Jordan didn’t start to win championships until he had Pippen to play that role, and if Hughes can continue to get better, he could be that guy. If so, get your Cleveland Cavaliers tickets now, as they’ll be making a deep run into the playoffs.



About the Author: Written by Jay Nault, sponsored by http://www.stubhub.com/ . StubHub sells Cleveland Cavaliers tickets, sports tickets, concert tickets, theater tickets and more to just about any event in the world.



Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=131599&ca=Sports

LeBron needs help to take Cavs to next level (PA SportsTicker)

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Pierce's performance woke Celtics' ghosts (Yahoo! Sports)

Paul Pierce did more than deliver a Game 7 victory with his 41 points. He also earned his Celtics stripes.

Pierce's performance woke Celtics ghosts (Yahoo! Sports)

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For NBA teams, no place like home in second round (AP)

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James can't save Cavs despite memorable game (AP)

Unable to carry the Cleveland Cavaliers to a win, LeBron James will have to settle for a memorable performance in a loss. James scored 45 points on 14-of-29 shooting in the Cavaliers' 97-92 loss to the Boston Celtics in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Sunday. His teammates mustered very little, including Wally Szczerbiak, who was scoreless, but James didn't blame anyone.

James, Cavaliers come up short of title (AP)

They lost their season opener on Halloween, and their finale in hallowed surroundings. In between, the Cleveland Cavaliers endured contract holdouts, overcame key injuries and were transformed by an extreme roster makeover general manager Danny Ferry believed would bring superstar LeBron James the necessary help to win it all.

Pierce scores 41 to lead Celts to Eastern finals (AP)

Paul Pierce hit a shot. Then LeBron James answered. Pierce hit another and so did James. It was like that all game long, two of the NBA's best trying to carry their teams to the next round. Pierce and the Boston Celtics succeeded, beating the Cleveland Cavaliers 97-92 on Sunday. Twenty years earlier there was another thrilling shootout in another seventh game of the Eastern Conference semifinals in...